IMPROVING parking facilities, upgrading toilets on the Marine Parade and a facility for beachfront weddings.

Those were just some of the ideas which had strong support at a public consultation event run by Lyme Regis Town Council.

The event took place in Woodmead Halls and all those who attended or submitted a written view were entered into a prize draw with a chance of winning £100.

The winner was Lyme Regis resident Nigel Ball, of Talbot Road.

Residents were asked to what they thought of the council’s possible future projects, ahead of the budget-setting process later this month.

There was strong support for improving parking facilities in the town by extending the opening dates of Charmouth Road park and ride from six weeks in the summer to also include weekends from the Whitsun holidays.

Plans to upgrade and possibly re-locate the Marine Parade toilets, and to refurbish the Candles on the Cobb Pavilion toilets, also received strong support.

Residents gave their strong backing to the suggestion of employing a seafront attendant, who would manage the council’s interests on the seafront, including beach huts, beach wheelchairs, public toilets, Marine Parade Shelters, cleaning and maintenance, and vehicle access.

A wet weather facility, developing the use of Strawberry Field, and exploring alternative council offices were also popular suggestions.

There were mixed views on installing a new ramp in seafront gardens to improve accessibility, and for plans to introduce beach and seafront weddings.

Plans to replace the Cart Road beach huts with a wood-effect material and re-designing the town council website received a less enthusiastic response.

Time to Talk was held to give the community the chance to comment on the council’s future projects, suggest new ideas, discuss any concerns, and talk to councillors.

It was also an opportunity for the authority to show what it has achieved over the last two years during the current administration.

Lyme Regis mayor, Cllr Michaela Ellis, said: “Time to Talk was a very positive event. It was useful for the council to be able to gather views and get feedback on proposed objectives before it starts committing public funds to these projects.

“It was an informal event and we encouraged people to drop in and chat to councillors about any issues affecting the town. 

“We gathered some really valuable feedback and there were lots of new ideas coming forward, which will help councillors make the right decisions when it comes to deciding the council’s aims and objectives.”