AN ECONOMIC plan will be produced to help improve West Bay after government money was awarded to help set up a new Coastal Communities Team.

The area will be given £10,000 to help develop an economic plan - which could include more car parking, improved public transport and more recreation facilities.

Bridport Business Chamber, Bridport Town Council, along with other community and tourism groups submitted a successful application for the funding.

An economic plan will be published by January, 2016.

Sarah Williams, leader of Bridport Town Council, said: “This is very good news and will enable existing groups to come together to develop an economic plan for West Bay and the surrounding area, building on the good partnership working that already exists.

“Issues that could be included in the plan, and which were in the bid, are further environmental improvements in West Bay, public transport – improved connections from West Bay to the town area of Bridport and other areas, additional car parking, tourism and visitor information and interpretation in West Bay and additional recreation facilities.

“This is a great opportunity for the area and the town council is very grateful for the support of all its partners to the bid.”

The head of the town's chamber of commerce believes there is a 'real appetite' to do something significant for the area.

Richard Smith, President of Bridport Business Chamber, said: “I am very excited at the possibilities of what this team and the funding can do for Bridport and West Bay.

Having met and communicated already with many of the key people involved, it seems there is a real appetite to use this opportunity to do something significant for the benefit of businesses, residents and visitors alike.”

The bid was supported by was supported by the Bridport Area Development Trust, West Bay Community Forum and West Dorset District Council.

Scott Condliffe, chairman of the Bridport and District Tourism Association, said: "There is already a great deal of cooperation between Bridport Town Council and many community groups, something which is quite special and doesn't happen everywhere.

"With the establishment of the Coastal Communities Team, and the benefit of the awarded funds, this is a big opportunity to make significant improvements for local people and visitors."