AMBITIOUS plans have been unveiled to breathe new life into an historic site at the heart of Dorchester town centre in a bid to attract more visitors and boost the local economy.

The proposals would see the historic Cornhill site, locally known as the town pump area in the heart of the town, redeveloped with a striking new public sitting area.

Dorset Echo: Early sketch of what the new public space could look like Picture: Feria UrbanismEarly sketch of what the new public space could look like Picture: Feria Urbanism

Plans are in the early design stages, but the area could include water features, sculptures and lighting to create atmosphere and a place for people to meet during the day and evening.

Dorset Echo: An experiment was carried out with giant foam blocks to see how the public would interact with them Picture: Feria UrbanismAn experiment was carried out with giant foam blocks to see how the public would interact with them Picture: Feria Urbanism

The project has been commissioned by Dorchester Town Council, which has appointed Dorset-based urban design studio, Feria Urbanism, to come up with the design.

Dorset Echo: Foam blocks were placed in various formations as an experiment during the early design stage Picture: Feria UrbanismFoam blocks were placed in various formations as an experiment during the early design stage Picture: Feria Urbanism

Dorchester councillor Susie Hosford said: “Over recent years Dorchester Town Council has delivered significant improvements to the public realm of the town centre, including new paving and street furniture in lower South Street and New Street, new paving in upper South Street, the full resurfacing of the Town Walks, and a new pedestrian wayfinding scheme across town.

"The next piece in the jigsaw is Cornhill. As the historic centre of the town the space needs to act as a social hub, and as a natural link to cultural venues to the north of High West and High East Street, such as Shire Hall, County Museum, Corn Exchange, to more fully present and promote the town and its events programme.”

Richard Eastham, director of Feria, described his vision for 'a northern version of Brewery Square' due to Cornhill's location in the north end of the town.

He said: "We want to get as much engagement from the community as possible - it's still very much in the concept stage.

Dorset Echo: Picture: Feria UrbanismPicture: Feria Urbanism

"On October 7 we did an experiment in the town with big foam blocks, arranging them in different ways. People were really excited and the feedback was very positive. What was remarkable was that the minute we turned our backs people wanted to sit on the blocks - one couple even had their lunch on one - so there's a real desire for more seating, not necessarily on benches.

"We're interested in how we can use objects and sculpture to create atmosphere, as well as using water as focal point - a place that people can enjoy and bring a smile to their face."

Residents are being invited to view an interactive 3-D model in the reception area of Dorchester Town Council's office at 19 North Square.

Dorset Echo: Residents are invited to help shape the new design for the town pump area - a 3D interactive model enables people to share their views Picture: Feria UrbanismResidents are invited to help shape the new design for the town pump area - a 3D interactive model enables people to share their views Picture: Feria Urbanism

The model enables people to draw and photograph their own design for the space and leave a comment. The display will be in place until 5pm on Wednesday, November 18.

Mr Eastham hopes the development will start next year.

He added: "We want to provide a space where people can sit outside, which could help food and drink operators if social distancing continues, and help the town centre thrive.

"We also have a lighting designer on board to create an evening atmosphere."

Feria Urbanism is working alongside experienced landscape architects from UBU Design and internationally renowned lighting designers at Michael Grubb Studio.

To view the concept design and give feedback visit www.dorchester-cornhill.com or drop into Dorchester Town Council's office to view the 3-D model.