Plans to demolish a refuge area including a café and toilets, on the A35 are receiving pushback. Concerns grow about the loss of facilities.
The current maintenance contract ends in 2026. Balfour Beatty holds that contract. The café and toilets will then be demolished.
Bridport Town Council supports the plan and wants a new rest stop built. It should offer an alternative stopping space for drivers and holidaymakers. Will Austin confirmed the “in principle support.”
They suggested using the nearby football park, called Allington Hill. This could fund park renovations too.
The stop could become a salt barn and hold 3,000 tonnes of salt. Garages and parking would also be made. A single-story office building is planned.
Cllr Stephen Ralph objects to these plans because he thinks the amenities are vital. He believes traffic will increase nearby, adding that the road is already bad. The current stop is a community asset.
Business owners worry about less foot traffic. Andrew Dyke said the pull-in is vital and supports trailer parking and goods transfer. The proposed spot near the football club is questionable.
Jonathan Hill is from National Highways. He says they are engaging with those affected and will continue to communicate, stating that the facility is key to maintaining the A35 and helps during bad weather.
Comments on the plan are now closed. Dorset Council will review them. Then, they will make a final decision. Dorset Council has not set a date yet.