A COUNCILLOR has hit out at the “terrible state” of a west Dorset town.

Cllr Stan Williams, who was appointed chairman of Lyme Regis Town Council’s management committee last month, launched the attack on the state of the coastal town at last week’s full council meeting.

Cllr Williams had noticed several issues while walking around the town early in the morning.

He acknowledged that staff from West Dorset District Council were doing a good job cleaning, but called on staff from the town council to start work earlier to help the cleanliness of the town.

He said: “The town is in a terrible state. It is sad, some of the things we have failed to do.

“The gardens from the gardeners point of view are perfect, but the rubbish situation is dire as the bins are either missing or have no proper lids, allowing the seagulls to have a field day and much more work for the cleaner.

“The situation at the top entrance of the gardens to Pound Street is a disgrace. We at no charge, allowed the owner of an adjoining property to access his house until Eater. It is still in a dreadful state.

“At the Monmouth Beach road by the Harbour Master’s shed, it is a disgrace and needs sorting. It was resolved in the autumn that the worn out carpets at the mini gold would be replaced before the start of the season but it has not been done and it lowers the tone of the area.”

Cllr Williams’ view were echoed by Ken Gollop, speaking in the public forum.

Mr Gollop criticised the state of storage bins at the Broad Street car park and by the amusement arcade on the seafront.

Mr Gollop, a former town councillor, said he was concerned Lyme Regis was “getting disgraceful” and pointed out that some parts had not been cleared for more than a year.

He said: “This town is slowly being taken over.

“This town is getting disgraceful. We need Lyme in pristine condition.”

But Cllr Daryl Turner spoke out against the judgement of the town, rubbishing claims about the cleanliness of Lyme Regis.

He also called on Cllr Williams, as chairman of the town management committee, to tackle the problems at the next committee meeting.

He said: “It’s not a disgrace. The gardeners do a wonderful job cleaning the area.

“I do not agree with that statement at all. What I would suggest to the manager of the town management committee is you get it on your agenda.”

Cllr Turner also spoke highly of the quick response by a waste agency after issues were raised on social media.