A DECISION on controversial plans to put a cycle lane along Weymouth Harbour has been delayed, as councillors say they need more time to review feedback from a public consultation.

Dorset Council has today given notice that it wishes to defer a report on the Custom House Quay enhancement proposals, which was scheduled to be discussed at a meeting on September 30, until a future meeting.

Councillors say that the additional time is necessary for them to reflect on the feedback on the proposal raised in a public consultation, which took place in July.

The council's proposals for permanent changes include:

• Creation of a restricted parking zone between St Mary Street and a point to the east of South Parade

• Installing an on-road cycle lane between St Mary Street and The Esplanade, with an easterly flow

• Introducing four new loading bays on Custom House Quay and one in Maiden Street, plus retaining the large loading bay by fish loading platform

• Installing a disabled bay (two spaces) near fish loading platform

• Removal of eleven parking spaces on Custom House Quay to the west of Pilgrims Way

• Removal of one parking space on the corner of Custom House Quay junction with the Esplanade

Councillor Ray Bryan, Dorset Council portfolio holder for highways, travel and environment, said: "On one of my regular visits to Weymouth last week, and again yesterday, and having spoken with local people and other interested parties, I've had time to reflect on the planning report regarding public realm enhancements at Custom House Quay, especially considering feedback from both our survey and formal consultation.

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"As a result, I have asked that the report by deferred from next week's Western and Southern Area Planning Committee meeting.

"In short, Dorset Council is listening to Weymouth residents, councillors and businesses and it is clear that there are still concerns to be addressed.

"I will work closely with Highways officers and key stakeholders to review the recommendations, potentially make changes, and bring the report back to committee in the near future.

"In the meantime, the imminent works at Custom House Quay are outside of the scope of the deferred report so they should proceed as planning from early October."