Three "walk-in" sessions have been held on the village green where Dorset Mayor Barry Jarvis joined other councillors to field questions on the concept.

The recently released concept plan involves replacing the existing hall and car park with an attractive development, including commercial tenancy, residential accommodation and a restaurant/cafe.

"As part of the plan, it is proposed that the site would be sold to a private developer and the proceeds of the sale reinvested into community facilities in Bridport," Cr Jarvis said earlier this month.

"This concept would see a better utilisation of a prime site in Bridport, enhance livability and also attract much-needed flow-on investment in Bridport and the Dorset community."

Cr Jarvis said the concept was no bigger than the current footprint of the hall and car park.

The community has also come up with its own suggestions, including a research centre, dedicated to preserving Bridport's art and culture.

Bridport resident Wendy McClennan said the facility would boost the region.

"The residents aren't getting any younger and I would hate to think of all the community's old art and books being sent to a tip or something like that once we go," she said.

"We have so many fantastic and talented people in this town and I think a lot of people would be interested in their lives and their talents. Bridport is quite an entrepreneurial town - I think it's a fantastic idea."