Work to improve a public space is to resume - after a five-month delay.

Improvement works are due to start on the West Bay Welcome Hub again this week and are set to be complete by Christmas. It is hoped the hub will be an attractive space for everyone to enjoy in the centre of West Bay.

The creation of the hub started in April and was expected to take nine weeks, but a delay in delivering correct materials meant the project fell behind schedule and it was postponed until after the summer months.

Western Power will be on site over the next couple of weeks to lower and re-cable a raised link box. The bespoke circular benches are due to be installed on the December 9, and the completed design will also include a central orientation feature in the form of a circular cast bronze plaque, made locally by Bridport Foundry.

The Dorset Coast Forum hopes the outer area, which is currently tarmac, will be laid with a durable resin surface in mid-December, weather permitting.

Sally King, project lead from the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Jurassic Coast Trust, said “We will be delighted to see the completed project and have the benches installed. Although there have been delays to the works, we are really hoping the weather is kind and the area can be enjoyed by all in time for Christmas.”

The West Bay Welcome Hub project is 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 is funded by a grant from the government’s Coastal Communities Fund and partner organisations and coordinated by Dorset Coast Forum.

The Welcome Hub project is led by Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty/Jurassic Coast Trust, working with artist Michael Pinsky, landscape architect Aileen Shackell Landscape Design and contractor Dorset Highways.

For more information and the seating installation dates, when confirmed, visit dorsetcoasthaveyoursay.co.uk/west-bay-welcome-hub.