A pristine wall on a Bridport landmark marks the finishing touch in the restoration of a prominent historic building.

For seven weeks scaffolding hid work on the side of the Literary and Scientific Institute (LSi) in East Street. 

Now, four years after the LSi reopened, an outstanding issue with the lime render on the west wall has been resolved and repairs, funded by Historic England, completed.

Reaching this milestone means the building can be removed from Historic England's At Risk Register when it is updated next year.

The architecturally important LSi reopened in 2018 following its rescue by Bridport Area Development Trust (BADT) to restore the Georgian institute for the economic, social and cultural benefit of the town.

The trust secured a significant repair grant from Historic England that contributed to the revival of the building, which had deteriorated to near-dereliction after the county council-run library relocated in 1997. 

A spokesperson for BADT said: "The trust would like to thank both the neighbouring Unitarian Chapel for their cooperation over this period and Historic England for their continued expertise and financial support in concluding this final element of work on the LSi.

"Passers-by might have wondered what was going on behind the substantial scaffold's exterior panels, especially given the weather.

"However, it was designed to maintain access to the neighbouring Chapel in the Garden and provide a protected environment for the repair work.

"The result is a fresh cohesive finish to the wall that is designed to protect the lime render and the fabric of the building, safeguarding of a key part of Bridport's architectural heritage."

Following its establishment of the highly successful, multiple award-winning West Bay Discovery Centre and the LSi, BADT is exploring new undertakings.

It has discussed independent projects, partnerships and advisory roles with Bridport Town Council and Dorset Council as well as local organisations and individuals.