A new chapter for the West Bay Discovery Centre

The 1^{st of} October saw a new arrangement for the West Bay Discovery Centre, one which the Bridport Area Development Trust (BADT) believes will secure the continuing success of the award-winning Centre. 

The Bridport Communities Trust will be taking over the ownership of the building and the Bridport Town Council will be managing the Centre on their behalf. The Discovery Centre will continue to be largely run by volunteers on a day-to-day basis, with a part-time manager co-ordinating their input and the Centre’s activities.

Bridport Area Development Trust, Trustee John West said “ It’s never been BADT’s plan to operate the Centre indefinitely, and in the Town Council we feel we have found the ideal partner that will enable the Centre to continue to do what it does so successfully. They will provide professional management of the staff and building while at the same time ensuring a secure and resilient future for the Centre. 

John added ”Alongside these changes, we have set up a Friends of the Discovery Centre charity. Running separately from the Council, this body, encompassing our volunteers initially, will carry out historical research, put on exhibitions at the Centre and support additional activities.”

Cllr Ian Bark, Leader of the Town Council said “The Town Council has been involved in the Centre from the concept stage, lending their support to the need for a heritage interpretation and local information facility in this part of the World Heritage Coast and helping to secure funding for it.  Our Town Surveyor gave professional support to the adaption of the former Chapel building and we have continued to work closely with BADT, including giving the Centre annual grant support. Consequently, we do not plan significant changes in the operation of the Centre and are keen to emphasise that the volunteer team will continue to be essential to the Centre’s success.”