A NEW chapter could be on the way for a site in West Dorset.

Dorset County Council has welcomed a proposal from the Lyme Regis Development Trust to explore options to develop the existing library site in Silver Street.

The plans for the site include a new library with street frontage shared with other public space, flexible for local needs, and the provision of housing, crucially including affordable housing.

Although still at an early stage, the council says if plans go ahead the project could create a much improved community facility in the heart of the town centre with a combined library and other public provision.

A public consultation will be held in the near future over the proposals.

Cllr Colin Jamieson, Cabinet member for community services, said: “The county council has welcomed the initial proposal from the Development Trust, and will be considering as part of exploration of services within the Lyme Regis and Bridport areas.

“We look forward to seeing a more detailed proposal and how the plans could provide an enhanced library service as well as other community benefits, including affordable housing.

“Local residents will be given a chance to give their views on the proposals, both for the overall scheme and for the plans to combine the library with other local opportunities. No decision will be made before a full public consultation has taken place.”

The Development Trust will continue working on the proposals, including liaising with the planning authority and other stakeholders as well as establishing the financial viability, which will help inform the council’s Cabinet later this year.

David Gale, trustee, who is leading the project said: “The Trust has committed to using the net proceeds from the sale of Monmouth House to provide affordable housing in the town, and this exciting project fits that aspiration as well as having the potential to benefit the residents of Lyme Regis and the surrounding areas in so many other ways”