THE chairman of the group overseeing the refurbishment of the Bridport LSI has responded to criticism from local businesses that the work is impacting on trade.

On Thursday, the Bridport News reported that firms were unhappy with “zero communication” from both Dorset County Council and the Bridport Area Development Trust about the works.

Michael Carter, chairman of the trust, has written an open letter in response to the concerns.

In his letter, Mr Carter states the site on East Street has “no alternative access” for removal and delivery of materials.

He added: “Currently, the contractor is engaged in an enabling phase of work which is necessary before the main scaffold can be erected.

“This involves some internal demolition and the removal of the existing ramp on East Street and explains the rather untidy and temporary nature of the site enclosure at this time. Once the scaffold is erected, hoardings will be put in place which will facilitate the installation of a planned community schools art project and provide for some concessionary advertising of local businesses and present an altogether tidier site set up for the duration of the project.”

Bridport and Lyme Regis News:

PICTURES: Bridport LSI restoration to bring "community asset" back to life

Mr Carter has also responded to safety concerns, after people were seen walking along the carriageway on East Street after the pavement was closed by Dorset County Council.

He added: “The resulting traffic plan agreed with the town surveyor and approved by DCC, relied on pedestrians crossing East Street at the existing zebra crossing and returning to the north side via the traffic islands located east of Barrack Street.

“This has proved to be too far away and cannot be a controlled crossing due to its proximity with the entrance to the East Street car park.

“The issue of safety has arisen because the public have chosen not to observe the provisions put in place which has led DCC Highways and the contractor to reconsider the approved plan.

"This has resulted in a pedestrian walkway between a reduced skip compound and the road which was installed yesterday."

Bridport and Lyme Regis News:

Mr Carter added that he regrets that no consultation was offered to businesses in Barrack Street, but said that he met with East Street traders prior to the work starting.

He said: “I personally consulted with all of the businesses within immediate proximity of the institute in East Street explaining; proposed contractors compound, loss of car parking to maintain two way traffic, closure of the pavement on the north side of East Street and planned duration of the work over a 12-month programme.

“I regret that I did not have the foresight to consult with Barrack Street traders which as I understand it, is where most of the complaints have stemmed from. I have now met with the parties who I know have raised concerns and have explained the background and the measures that have been taken to mitigate their concerns.”

“The very nature of the project means that there will inevitably be some disruption and inconvenience whilst the work is carried out and we hope that the town will show some understanding and support for the project in acknowledgement of the benefit that it will deliver in the longer term.

“In the meantime, we shall now continue together with the contractor, to liaise with all local businesses and try to help promote their own ideas for flagging particularly, the Barrack Street businesses whilst the work is undertaken.”