West Dorset biker ban quickly revoked

WEST Dorset District Council had to make a u-turn after they introduced signs banning motorcycle parking by the pier in West Bay.

The 'No Parking' signs appeared without warning but after a Facebook-led campaign by motorcyclists and local business owners, the council were brought to task.

Chris Graves, the new head of parking at West Dorset Council, met with local business owners, bikers and the harbour master to discuss the District Council's latest move. Following the meeting, the council agreed to take down the signs and convert car-parking spaces in the nearby carpark to motorcycle-only spaces.

West Dorset District Council leader Cllr Robert Gould said: “The motorcycle parking signs that were put up to deter motorcyclists parking along West Bay Esplanade have been taken down. The council has been speaking to motorcycling groups as part of a wider initiative to provide designated motorcycle bays and better signage in West Bay and in all the district council car parks in the very near future.”

Local businessman, Steve Tucker, said: "We hope news will spread that more than ever, West Bay welcomes motorcyclists. They are an important part of the tourism that helps to keep businesses in West Bay alive and hopefully thriving.”