How could flood defence be improved at West Bay? Well, you can have your say on this and three other major coastal development projects.

Residents, visitors and business owners in West Bay and the surrounding area are invited learn more about how Dorset Coastal Connections and Environment Agency projects are progressing and to have their say on four planned projects, including:

  • Coastal defence works to protect East Beach, West Beach and the Parkdean site from potential flood risks and make these sites more resilient to storm damage.

  • A proposed boardwalk to improve access from East Beach car park to the crest of East Beach’s shingle bank.

  • A proposed multi-use ‘welcome hub’ area in front of the George Hotel which project co-ordinators hope will create a more attractive space which can be better used and enjoyed by residents and visitors, including motorcyclists.

  • To enhance the traffic-free route between West Bay and Bridport and create a more attractive welcome for cyclists and walkers arriving in West Bay.

Proposed designs and initial concepts from renowned artist Michael Pinsky will be on display for the community to view, discuss and have their say next week.

Dorset Coast Forum and Mr Pinsky are working with the Environment Agency, Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), Jurassic Coast Trust and Dorset County Council to deliver the projects which, according to them, will protect and enhance the area.

Three of the projects are part of the Dorset Coastal Connections portfolio of 18 projects along the Dorset coast which aim to support and boost the economies of Dorset’s coastal areas.

The portfolio, funded by a grant from the government’s Coastal Communities Fund and partner organisations, is co-ordinated by Dorset Coast Forum. The coastal defence improvement project is led by the Environment Agency and West Dorset District Council.

Dorset Coastal Connections project officer, Nikki Parker-Goadsby said: “We are really keen to talk to the community and hear views on the proposed designs and concept drawings for these projects. Feedback received from the events will help influence the final overall design of the projects."

The plans can be viewed on Thursday, July 19, at the Salt House between 2-7pm (all projects) and Sunday, July 22, at the concrete area in front of the George pub between 1-3pm (welcome hub only).

Information displayed at the consultation for the three Dorset Coastal Connections projects can also be viewed at dorsetcoasthaveyoursay.co.uk where you can also have your say on the proposed designs between July 19 and 29.