West Dorset Commons

West Dorset Commons is a community organisation based in Bridport, Dorset, England. It is involved in locally led initiatives focused on community development, sustainability and access to services, and has received significant media coverage for its role in the development of community transport projects in the Bridport and Lyme Regis area.

The organisation has been particularly associated with the WB1 Bridport–West Bay shuttle, a pilot bus service launched in 2025 that attracted sustained local and national media attention.

History

West Dorset Commons was originally established under the name United Diversity Bridport. The organisation later adopted its current name as its activities and geographic focus expanded beyond the town of Bridport to a wider area of West Dorset.

According to the organisation’s own published materials, it uses the concept of the “West Dorset bioregion” to describe a place-based framing for its work, encompassing social, environmental and economic initiatives.

Community transport initiatives

WB1 Bridport–West Bay shuttle

West Dorset Commons has been involved in the development and promotion of a pilot community bus service between Bridport and West Bay, known as the WB1 Bridport–West Bay shuttle.

The service launched in July 2025. Reporting by BBC News described the initiative as a response to limited local public transport options and noted the role of community organisations working in partnership with local authorities and transport providers.

The Bridport News published multiple articles covering the release of the WB1 timetable, the launch of the service, early public response, and subsequent extensions following demand.

Later coverage described the service as a success, citing strong passenger numbers and positive community feedback.

The pilot was supported by funding from the Western Gateway Sub-national Transport Body, with delivery involving Dorset Community Transport and Bridport Town Council.

LB1 Lyme Regis–Bridport service

In 2026, local media reported plans for a further community bus route, known as the LB1, intended to connect Lyme Regis with Bridport, with a proposed launch date in April 2026.

Media coverage

West Dorset Commons has been covered by both local and national media, primarily in relation to its involvement in community transport initiatives.

External links

• https://westdorset.coop – Official West Dorset Commons website