BRIDPORT could have a brand new social care hub by the start of 2019 after Dorset County Council revealed plans to develop the Fisherman's Arms site.

The county council is set to submit proposals for the £4.7m scheme next month, and subject to approval, hope to begin work on site in January.

Kelvin Bland, project architect of the county council, said: "The whole idea of the building is to provide lots of spaces that are flexible that people can use.

"We are trying to make something that will allow the maximum of use to most number of people who need the facilities.

"We are looking at possibly starting on site in January and then it will be about a year to build. We we hopefully be ready to open in January 2019."

The county council held an open day last week in order to listen to people's views before the proposals are submitted to planners.

Mr Bland added: "A lot of people have said we haven't had consultations but we started that process three years ago.

"We had to put it on pause but we have kept those views and this is a continuation. We have taken on board what people have said.

"We are hoping the plans are submitted in early June. We haven't put it in before now because we want to get people's ideas and get things right."

The plans will include specialist facilities, Changing Places toilets, as well as meeting rooms and conference rooms. The Oh Crumbs café will also be moved to the South Street site from its current home at Plottingham.

Cllr Ros Kayes praised the county council for pushing ahead with the development.

She said: "Overall this is a good scheme for Bridport and I hope they get moving on it as soon as possible to provide a modern, fit for purpose space which will enable the groups that use it to have tip top facilities.

"I commend the county council for keeping this project as a priority in this time of austerity."