A NEW watersports centre looks set to make a splash thanks to funding from West Dorset District Council.

Councillors voted on Tuesday to provide further funding for the project which will help improve West Bay as a centre for watersports.

The project, which is being led by Bridport Town Council, will see the former toilets at Fisherman’s Green converted into changing facilities and storage for local clubs. Robert Gould, leader of West Dorset District Council, said: “It is great news that West Bay will be getting a new watersports centre. I am glad we have been able to step-in and find the money to help make it happen.

“We are lucky to live in such a lovely area and good facilities will mean even more people will come and enjoy West Bay. It should attract more visitors and give our economy a further boost.”

The district council's executive committee voted to award the project an additional £26,020, on-top of £20,000 already ear-marked for the scheme.

This will provide 90 per cent of funding needed.

The new watersports centre is expected to cost £56,020, which includes the cost of converting the former toilets, improving access and building new storage.

A total of £35,000 will come from the district council's West Bay Enhancement Fund, £5,000 will come from the district council's Leisure Development Fund, £11,020 will come from section 106 recreation money, which is funds the district council collects from developers, and Bridport Town Council will contribute £5,000.

Work on the new watersports centre is ready to begin.