Dredging costs at West Bay harbour have come in at £42,000 more than expected.

Harbours committee members were told that the estimated cost of £75,000 of dredging for the outer harbour had gone up to £117,000 by the time the invoice was submitted.

The increase in costs was not questioned by committee members.

The harbour is expected to finish the financial year with a £35,000 overspend.

Harbourmaster James Radcliffe told councillors that some mooring holders at both West Bay and Lyme Regis had decided not to return in the coming season – but their spaces were quickly being taken from those on the waiting list.

He said that commercial diving, mainly for scallops, had continued during the lockdown which had helped the harbour air bottle refill income. Commercial moorings at both harbours remained at full capacity.

At Lyme Regis dredging is due to start on April 6 while at West Bay piling work due to start this month is likely to be delayed until next season unless contractors are able to get underway in early April.

Mr Radcliffe said the work was largely for appearance so would not cause any safety issues if the work was delayed.