PUBLIC consultation has started today on plans to enhance Dorchester's historic Maumbury Rings and make the site more accessible for all.

Members of the Dorchester heritage joint committee have given the ambitious proposals the go-ahead and now it is up to local people to have their say.

A large weather-proof board will be situated at the ancient monument in the heart of the county town to inform those who actively use the site about the proposed improvements and to encourage a response.

Details of the plans and comment forms will also be available at the Dorchester Town Council offices in North Square, and at another location yet to be decided on but possibly the public library or museum. Proposals include three information boards outlining the history of the site - pre-Roman times, Roman times and the monument's more recent history including its English Civil War role.

Plans include new traditionally-styled metal fencing around the outside of the site to provide a neater and more attractive setting to the ancient monument as well as repair work to the damaged boundary wall along Weymouth Avenue.

New surfaced pathways and new, wider kissing gates at the entrances to the site are suggested to enable better access for people using wheelchairs and pushchairs.

The public consultation runs until December 10. To see the plans online visit the Dorset For You website.