Dorset Coast Forum are inviting West Bay residents and businesses to meet with project engineers at an informal drop-in engagement session where they can find out more about what type of improvements works are being done and how they will be carried out.

The sessions will be held at the Salt House, West Bay, Bridport DT6 4HD on Tuesday 29 September 5.30-7.30pm and Wednesday 30 September 2.00-4.00pm.

These are indoor events, so please remember to bring a face mask. There will be a maximum of six people at a time in the Salt House and social distancing measures will be in place.

Flood protection works have already been carried out on East and West Beach in West Bay and the beaches are now stronger and more able to withstand winter storms.

However, improvement works still needs to be carried out along the Parkdean Embankment to protect against the river overflowing. Work will be carried out in a partnership between Dorset Council, the Environment Agency, Parkdean Resorts UK, Dorset Coast Forum and Jacobs Consultants. The start is planned for 30  November, with completion expected in February 2021.

Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said, “As our climate continues to change and the weather becomes more unpredictable, it is vitally important that we do all we can to protect our residents, visitors, businesses and property against flooding. This riverbank work is a great example of what can be achieved when different partners come together with a common goal.

 “Please pop in to one of these sessions to see what we have planned and how it will protect the holiday park. Our friendly Project Engineers will be on hand to answer any questions you may have – just make sure you bring your face covering and observe social distancing measures. We hope to see you there.”

If you are unable to attend the sessions further information about the riverbank improvements can be found at https://www.dorsetcoast.com/projects/west-bay-coastal-defence-improvements

For more information about the drop-in events, please call the Dorset Coast Forum on 01305 224833.