People can have their say on coastal regeneration projects.

The Dorset Coast Forum, working with the Bridport and West Bay Coastal Community Team (CCT) and four project teams led by The Jurassic Coast Trust and AONB, Dorset County Council, Environment Agency and Bridport Area Development Trust, is hosting two drop-in engagement events, which will allow the community to express their ideas and suggestions for each project.

All the projects have been funded through the Coastal Community Fund. Three of the projects are part of the Dorset Coastal Connections project and the other one, for the refurbishment of the former Methodist Chapel, is led by the Bridport Area Development Trust.

The former Methodist Chapel will be transformed into the West Bay Discovery Centre, the West Bay Welcome Zone will be set up in front of The George, access will be provided to East Beach from the carpark to the crest of the beach, and a cycle path will be formed from Bridport to West Bay.

Project coordinator Natalie Poulter said: “We are really keen to hear residents’ and visitors’ views on how each space is or could be used, potential seating, what information people would like and the overall look and feel of each location. 

“Feedback received from the events will help influence the overall design of the projects.”

The projects will be set up in the next two years and the first stage will be to seek the views of the community and visitors. Each project is being developed and delivered to suit the individual needs of the local area, and Dorset Coast Forum is working with visitors and residents to ensure the projects fit with the local culture, identity and heritage and provides results which are welcomed. 

Cllr Sarah Williams, leader of Bridport Town Council, said: “It is now important that the local community and visitors are able to see what is proposed and have the opportunity to comment and influence how each of the schemes are delivered.

The team will be at the Salt House on July 4 from 11am-5.30pm and on July 9 from 12pm-4pm.