PEOPLE are being urged to have their say on proposed improvements to a centre on the Jurassic Coast which showcases underwater wildlife.

Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Marine Centre at Kimmeridge Bay is being revamped and updated as part of the Dorset Coastal Connections programme.

It has received funding through the programme from the Coastal Communities Fund, as well as financial support from Dorset Wildlife Trust and the Fine Family Foundation.

The project will revitalise the interpretative displays, and help visitors understand how and why the area’s wildlife and their habitats benefit from a high level of protection as part of the recently-designated Marine Protected Area. The team are also working with landowners the Smedmore Estate to improve the visitor experience at Kimmeridge Bay, making it easier for visitors to discover what’s on offer and find what they’re looking for.

Dorset Coast Forum, an independent coastal partnership, co-ordinates a portfolio of 18 projects and is running a drop-in engagement session at the Etches Collection museum in Kimmeridge on Saturday, October 28, between 1pm and 4pm.

Dorset Coastal Connections Project Co-ordinator Natalie Poulter said: “This is a chance for local people to get involved with this exciting project at an early stage. The story told at the centre is relevant to everyone for different reasons, and we’d like to hear residents’ views on where that story should start.”

Marine Awareness Officer for Dorset Wildlife Trust Julie Hatcher said: ‘Residents are our best ambassadors. We’re keen to work with our community to learn how we can help visitors from near and far understand the uniquely special environment we all enjoy here at Kimmeridge, and how we can build closer relationships with people living locally.”

If you can’t make it to the session, more information and an opportunity to have your say is available online at www.dorsetcoasthaveyoursay.co.uk, where you can also discover the other projects by Dorset Coastal Connections. Contact the team at Dorset.coast@dorsetcc.gov.uk or call 01305 224833.