THE £2.3million project to repair Poole's Dolphin Shopping Centre car park is progressing well, Borough of Poole (BOP) engineers say.

Phase one of the renovations started in July and the multi-storey customer car park is on target to reopen in time for Christmas.

The work has progressed despite a fire that destroyed a Bobcat digger on the top level and delayed work for a few days earlier this month.

BOP engineering manager John Rice said: "We are just over half way through this four month phase of the project and the works are on time and to budget.

"We have completed the significant works to the top deck and we are now concentrating on improvements to Level H.

"We would like to thank customers for their patience while these improvements are taking place. We are aiming to re-open the car park in time for the busy shopping period leading up to Christmas."

The top level has been resurfaced and waterproofed, main joints and columns have been replaced and LED lanterns installed.