Protest over Weymouth Harbour railings planned for today
Community leaders say they weren't consulted
There are plans for a protest today against railings being installed along Weymouth Harbour.
The Health and Safety Executive have advised Dorset Council to put the barrier in place, to stop people falling into the water.
But there's criticism from community leaders over a lack of consultation.
The work was due to begin today, but Cllr Louie O'Leary has written on social media the work's been suspended for 72 hours to "take in views and consider all options."
Residents have started a petition to prevent the installation of barriers along Weymouth's Harbour Wall
Dorset Council say the 250-metre-long barrier will be a mix of key-lamp and post and chain which will give flexibility for harbour users accessing boats.
Railings being installed along Custom House Quay were not part of the recent Harbourside survey as it was an independent piece of safety work.
Dorset Council say it was not discussed with the wider public as discussions have taken place with various stakeholders in the Custom House Quay area.
Cllr Ray Bryan, Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said:
"We've been working closely with Weymouth Harbour Master on the installation of these safety railings.
"With the ever-increasing attraction of the harbour area, we needed to address the risk of injury to people by falling into the deep harbour water, or on to one of the pontoons.
"The initial materials are an interim measure as we work with the harbour users to determine what permanent solution may work best."
PARKING BAYS REMOVED ON CUSTOM HOUSE QUAY
It's to make room for sitting out areas outside of premises on Custom House Quay to allow plenty of space for pedestrians on either side of the road.
Loading bays have been marked out for harbour vessels and other harbourside businesses.
Two disabled parking bays are available between Pilgrim Street and South Parade.
SEATING TO BE INSTALLED ON HARBOUR'S SOUTHSIDE
Two areas on Trinity Road are being marked out with barriers for additional outside seating ready for when hospitality venues can reopen.
Access and parking along Trinity Road will be unaffected but the road will be slightly narrowed outside Nanna Moon's, the Kings Arms and Bennett's Fish and Chips to provide the additional space.
Outdoor seating for other businesses on Trinity Road are being provided, including outside the Old Rooms, The T Room and for a pizzeria due to open.