A PUBLIC consultation has revealed overwhelming support for the transformation of Weymouth train station forecourt as part of a proposed £600,000 project.

The Weymouth Station Gateway 'Have Your Say' survey carried out by Dorset Coast Forum asked for opinions on pedestrian access, 'undesirable behaviour', and the overall look and feel of the area in front of the station.

Results of the consultation show that the majority of the 280 people who responded agreed the forecourt is currently in a poor condition and want to see it transformed into a welcoming, attractive and safe area.

The online survey, launched in July, shared proposals for changes to car parking and flow of traffic as well as sustainable transport links for bus passengers and cyclists, and improvements to pedestrianisation.

Other key themes include providing more information, better landscaping and design, better lighting and signage, as well as making more use of public art.

The project aims to provide a more open public area that will encourage people to use the central space, and 'deter undesirable behaviour to which many respondents had concerns'.

It will cost around £596,000 which includes a £450k grant from the South Western Railway Customer and Communities Improvement Fund, plus funding from Dorset Council, Public Health Dorset, Weymouth BID and Weymouth Town Council.

The survey results will now be fed back into the new design, which Dorset Coast Forum aims to have in place before the end of the year.

Andrew Ardley, regional development manager of South Western Railway, thanked residents for taking part.

“There is a clear message for change and I am encouraged by the engagement from the community," he said.

"We look forward to seeing a new and improved station area welcoming visitors to Weymouth as well as an enhanced experience for local people.”

Councillor Ray Bryan, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for highways, travel and environment, added: “I’d like to thank everyone involved for their interest and positive feedback. We want to make sure everyone experiences a warm welcome when they arrive in Weymouth and have sustainable transport connections within the area.

"This project is another example of how we are involved in making improvements to the town and I’m looking forward to seeing a design that reflects the wants of the community.”

For more details visit www.dorsetcoasthaveyoursay.co.uk/weymouth-gateway