A DRAFT economic plan has been put together to help Weymouth grow, despite the 'significant' challenges the town faces.

The plan has been put together as a guiding document to strengthen and build upon Weymouth’s key assets.

It is part of a national Coastal Communities Initiative which aims to improve the economy in coastal areas with a similar plan currently being developed for Portland.

People are now being invited to have their say on the plan.

The draft plan was developed by the Weymouth Coastal Communities Team which involves members of the Weymouth and Portland Partnership Business Leader’s Group.

On the board are representatives from the Weymouth and Portland Chamber of Commerce, Weymouth and Portland Tourism Partnership and Weymouth BID as well as the council.

The aim of the plan is to set out a focused strategy and action plan to realise the opportunities and address the economic challenges facing the area.

Cllr Mike Byatt, Weymouth and Portland Borough Council’s briefholder for economic development, who is part of the coastal communities team, said despite challenges, there is potential for growth in Weymouth.

He said: “This plan will form part of a wider economic strategy for the future and will run alongside the development of the Western Growth Corridor.

“Despite significant challenges, Weymouth has the potential to grow. All the ingredients are in place for the town to re-establish itself as a vibrant community with a strong and diverse economic foundation.”

Cllr Byatt encouraged people to get involved with the plan.

He said: “We are keen for people to have the opportunity to comment on the developing strategy, specifically the projects that need to be taken forward to advance the plan.”

The long-term ambition of the plan is so that by 2031, the town centre and seafront are regenerated with improved flood defences, to have a strong and diversified economy and to retain and enhance Weymouth built and natural environment.

The overall aim is to make it a place that local residents will be proud of.

The action plan and how the plan will be delivered is still to follow.

The draft plan is available at www.dorsetforyou.com/Weymouth-and-Portland-Partnership

People are asked to provide their comments by email to communityplanning@westdorset-weymouth.gov.uk

As well as this, consultation events will take place during January to develop the action plan to support economic development and accelerate growth in the greater Weymouth area.

Details will be available of these events at the webpage above.

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