Traders in West Bay have been left disappointed after plans to rebuild the harbour were put on hold for a year. 

Work was scheduled to take place this autumn after temporary repairs were made to the harbour wall in March - which saw traders shut down for several weeks. 

However, the News reported last week that the work will not begin until autumn 2025. 

This means businesses situated near to the wall will have to put up with the temporary barrier closing off the walkway and public toilets for another 12 months.

READ: West Bay harbour wall repairs delayed until Autumn 2025

Signage at West Bay harbour wall B were the public pathway is closed along with the public toilets.Signage at West Bay harbour wall B were the public pathway is closed along with the public toilets. (Image: Newsquest)

One business owner, who didn't want to be named, said that the temporary walkway has already impacted trade and was left 'extremely disappointed' that they will have to put up with the state of the site for another year. 

They said: "It's extremely disappointing, I've lost 20 per cent of my seating due to the temporary walkway and it just doesn't look great for visitors - or anyone really - and the toilet situation is not good either.

"It is what it is. But we have not been able to have as many seats - we have the same tables but because it is all squashed there are less seats and I think it might have impacted our trade."

With the public toilets by the Harbour Master's office closed, temporary toilets have been set up inside The Salt House building by the entrance to the West Bay holiday park.

However, with just one small notice informing people of where to find the temporary toilets another local business owner has called on Dorset Council to introduce better signage.

READ: Harbour wall repairs completed ahead of schedule

Closed footpath next to the harbour wall which needs replacingClosed footpath next to the harbour wall which needs replacing (Image: Newsquest)

Sue Smith, owner of the Windy Corner Café opposite the kiosk area and harbour wall, said: "The temporary toilets have not been signposted, so we get a lot of people coming in, which is fine, but when you are busy it can get quite hectic.

"But we have had to put signs up saying the toilets are at The Salt House.

"If the council could put signs at the roundabout, that would be helpful, especially for people who are visiting on holiday."