The finishing touches to the restoration of a prominent Bridport landmark have been completed.

For seven-weeks, scaffolding hid the work being done on the side of the Literary and Scientific Institute (LSi) on East Street.

Repairs funded by Historic England and were carried out for an outstanding issue with the lime render and the fabric of the west wall of the building.

The works mean that the grade II listed building can now be removed from Historic England’s ‘At Risk Register’ when it is updated next year.

A spokesperson for Bridport Area Development Trust (BADT) said: “The Trust would like to thank both the neighbouring Unitarian Chapel for their co-operation over this period and Historic England for their continued expertise and financial support in concluding this final element of work on the LSi.

“Passers-by might have wondered what was going on behind the substantial scaffold’s exterior panels, especially given the weather, however, it was designed to maintain access to the neighbouring Chapel in the Garden and provide a protected environment for the repair work.

"The result is a fresh cohesive finish to the wall that is designed to protect the lime render and the fabric of the building, safeguarding of a key part of Bridport’s architectural heritage.”

The LSi initially reopened in 2018 following its rescue by Bridport Area Development Trust to restore the Georgian institute for the economic, social and cultural benefit of the town.

The Trust secured a significant repair grant from Historic England that contributed to the revival of the building, which had deteriorated to near-dereliction after the county council-run library relocated in 1997.

The BADT says following its establishment of the successful, multiple award-winning West Bay Discovery Centre and the LSi, it is now exploring 'new undertakings'.

It has discussed 'independent projects, partnerships and advisory roles' with Bridport Town Council and Dorset Council as well as local organisations and individuals.

*Other nearby buildings currently on the  ‘At Risk Register’ include, the Church of St John in West Bay and Messrs Norman goods warehouse, Station Road, also West Bay.