A new community group which aims to help kickstart regeneration in Weymouth says it is ready to ‘make a difference’.

The Weymouth Area Development Trust has been launched, and is looking for people to get involved or anything it can help with.

Development trusts are community owned and led but work in partnership with other sectors to assist in the economic, environmental and social regeneration of a particular area.

The Weymouth trust gained full Community Interest Company status (CIC) earlier this year. All its team members are residents of Weymouth One of the founders, Chris Wilson, said: “We are delighted to launch the Weymouth Area Development Trust CIC.

“A development trust could make a big difference in our town.

“Bridport, Lyme Regis and Swanage all have development trusts that have attracted funding and development into their towns.

“We think it’s Weymouth’s turn.”

She said the work being carried out includes getting residents together with organisations and public services to come up with solutions.

Chris said: “We host groups like ‘Team around Melcombe Regis’, the Weymouth Coastal Community Team and Weymouth Area Tourism Partnership.

“Some of the projects involved have already got people into work, homes and education and the Team around Melcombe Regis has provided evidence to the Melcombe Regis Board.”

The trust is also working on projects of its own, like creating a ‘co-work space’ for freelancers, start ups and entrepreneurs in an unused building, and bidding for funding and grants for projects to help local people.

The creation of the trust was made possible by the outgoing Weymouth and Portland Partnership. Members want to thank Weymouth College, WeyForward, the Lantern and Weymouth and Portland Borough Council for supporting them in the early stages.

Principal of Weymouth College Nigel Evans said “ Weymouth College is committed to its town and its community, and is delighted to welcome and support the Weymouth Area Development Trust team and wishes them every success”.

If you want to make a difference in Weymouth town, or are already involved in something that the development trust may be able to help with then contact WADT on emails at office@wadt.org.uk or call 01305 764717 to leave a message.