Mixed opinions were expressed about a potential new lighting scheme for Weymouth seafront.

The first day of a consultation event was held at Weymouth Library yesterday which saw hundreds of people drop in to ask questions and give feedback.

As reported, award-winning design studio Tonkin Lui, has been appointed by the borough council to design the lighting project for the promenade.

The design aims to celebrate the sweep of Weymouth Bay, and unify the three distinct character areas of the seafront - the peninsula, the main Esplanade, and Greenhill - using a LED lighting scheme along 63 columns.

It will be different to the traditional fairy lights which used to decorate the seafront and were every popular.

Project officer Nikki Parker-Goadsby along with project co-ordinator Natalie Poulter at Dorset Coastal Connections were on hand at the library to explain the potential new lighting scheme and answer any questions.

Julia Harrison, 63 and her husband Martyn, 67, have lived in Weymouth all their lives.

Mrs Harrison said: "The fairy lights were beautiful and people came away from the town remembering them. It would be nice to have something that left that feeling with people again.

"We need something along the Esplanade. It's all about technology now - the new lighting scheme is nice and it's a positive step forward. I wouldn't want them all flashing constantly as I think that would be a bit too much, but it's good that different patterns of lights can be shown on them."

However, 54-year-old John Butterworth from Weymouth felt that the new lighting scheme did not fit in with the feel of the town.

He said: "I really don't think this is what the town wanted when we all attended the last consultation. I understand that a lot of work has gone into this but it's just not Weymouth."

Members of the public were also asked for their opinion as to what time the lights should be switched off, with the majority of the public saying between 12am and 1am.

Tonkin Lui has also been working with schools in the area, asking for opinions of pupils as to what colours they would like to see on the Esplanade. The work and interpretations of children from Westfield Arts College was shown at the library.

Nikki Parker-Goadsby said: "We've had mixed reactions throughout the day – we are getting some really positive feedback, alongside the negative, but that's what consultations are for.

"The lights would be switched on at around dusk and the system is changeable so the patterns of lights can vary.

"They would run every night of the year and would alternative between a more 'active' display and a 'quieter' one.

"At the consultation last year, 42 per cent of people said they liked the fairy lights and the colour of the fairy lights and that show the sweep of the bay.

"That is what has tried to be interpreted here, but with modern technology."

A second consultation event will be held at Weymouth Library today from 9am until 4pm.

The plans are also be available online at dorsetcoasthaveyoursay.co.uk until Thursday, May 24.

A video of the potential new lighting scheme can be seen at dorsetecho.co.uk