The next step of the Seafront Regeneration Programme will be taking place on Monday 20 February with the preparatory works starting, prior to resurfacing of the promenade with a characteristic red finish.

The work will start at the north end of Brunswick Terrace and end at the south end of the promenade adjacent to the Pavilion car park and will be phased over six weeks.

Around 300 metres of promenade will be resurfaced each day, working on half widths at a time to keep the esplanade open.

The contractors will liaise with any businesses open during the works to keep access open and reduce disruption to a minimum. Vehicle movements on the new surface will be restricted for a minimum of four to six hours and again contractors will liaise with businesses as work progresses.

Weymouth and Portland Partnerships and Special Projects brief holder Councillor Howard Legg said: “The works that are going to be carried out are the beginning of the end of our seafront regeneration project.

“The work is taking place now when use is at a low.  Residents and visitors to Weymouth will be able to use the esplanade during the busy summer period and Diamond Jubilee celebrations as normal but hopefully with an enhanced experience.

“We will try and keep disruption to a minimum and apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

Also on Monday work will start at the north end of the promenade opposite Astrid Way on the foundations for seven 15 metre-high illuminated, artist designed sculptural columns extending from Alexandra Gardens up to the Pier bandstand.

These ground works are being undertaken by M&L Engineering based on Portland who are just completing the refurbishment and installation of the Victorian columns along the promenade.

Each individual column will be internally lit with coloured light and each will house a laser lighting unit that will provide subtle and changing illuminations that will extend across the beach into the sea.

The contractors for the lights and the resurfacing are in touch with one another and will be coordinating their work, which will be overseen by the borough council.

Councillor Legg added: “The scheme will provide a new focal point for Weymouth’s seafront and promenade and help raise the profile of Weymouth as a place of innovation and interest.  These improvements will also help ensure that Weymouth looks it’s best for summer 2012 and will offer new and improved facilities and experiences for residents and visitors to enjoy.

“Any short term disruptions will be outweighed by the long term and lasting benefits for the town.”

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For more information, please contact:
	Weymouth and Portland Borough Council Council Offices North Quay Weymouth Dorset DT4 8TA Twitter: #wpbc	Or email us: c.services@westdorset-weymouth.gov.uk Or call us: (01305) 838000