A STEERING group set up to manage Asker Meadows in Bridport has asked the community to share their thoughts on further plans for the local beauty spot.

The group, called the Asker Nature Reserve Project, has consulted with the local community and created a draft plan for further development with an independent designer.

A public meeting will now be held on Wednesday, June 18 from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Bridport town hall to allow residents to inspect the plans and have their say.

The new project will transform the unused area of land owned by Bridport Town Council into a shared community space.

Brian Atkinson, a member of the design sub-commitee, said: “Kingston Maurward students recently presented wildflower seedlings and in addition, a water main has been put in to provide water for the Asker Meadow showground and the cattle that graze there.

“A copy of the draft plan will be placed on the council noticeboard near the new Asker Bridge.”

Back in January 2013, the revamp of the meadows so far was hailed a great success.

Town surveyor Daryl Chambers led the way to breathe new life into the green space just outside the town centre.

In Bridport Town Council’s 2012/2013 annual report, councillors heard that the major scheme has made the area fully accessible and has introduced new paths, fencing and a bridge over to the New Zealand site.

The paths and bridge for the 20-acre site allows people from the east of Bridport to get into the town centre without using a car, with the cycle route planning to eventually link Maiden Newton with West Bay. The town will ensure grazing and fishing rights to the river are controlled.

The local Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) group also previously gave the project a glowing report and a grant of £1,500.

Asker Meadows will host The Jurassic Fields Music Festival on July 12.