• 1973 – Plans for a new-look Dorchester town centre first touted, a proposed redevelopment was abandoned a year later because it was seen as too ambitious.

• Late 1980s – Two-storey shopping mall plan on Charles Street falls down after the collapse of the property market.

• Late 1990s – Developers Helical bid to redevelop the site with department stores, around 25 smaller shops, an extension to Waitrose and housing. It ends in 2000 after failing to secure a flaship store.

• 2005 – Council invites developers for Charles Street site. 15 firms show an interest.

• September, 2006 – Simons is the preferred developer for the site.

• August, 2007 – Simons and West Dorset District Council unite in a development agreement to take the site forward.

• December, 2008 – The council’s executive committee agree to focus on Charles Street as potential site to relocate its offices.

• January, 2009 – Charles Street and Brewery Square are both potential locations for offices.

• July, 2009 – Opposition councillors voice anger after council announces Simons as preferred developer for new office scheme. First artist’s impression of new offices released.

• December, 2009 – Simons holds a two-day plans exhibition. 800 people provide feedback.

• March, 2010 – Over 200 people attend a public meeting organised by Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate Sue Farrant to discuss West Dorset District Council’s relocation to Charles Street. Council leader Robert Gould and chief executive David Clarke do not attend.

• April, 2010 – Dorchester’s first ever parish poll asks voters their opinion on relocation plans.

A total of 2,200 voters (93 per cent) say no.

• April, 2010 – Waitrose announced as anchor store as developers Simons deliver planning application to West Dorset District Council.

• June, 2010 – Another Simons exhbition.

• June 18, 2010 – 300 comments to planning application.

• September, 2010 – Council backs plans for offices and library block and grant outline permission for the rest of the scheme.

• March, 2011 – Period for possible judicial review expires. Opponents reject legal action.

• June 6, 2011 – Work begins on site.