From an £8 million highways investment and new business premises to appointments, regional policy and independent retail, we round up the news affecting Dorset businesses this month.
£8m highways depot begins construction in Bridport
Work has begun on a new £8 million National Highways maintenance depot at New Street Lane, Bridport. The facility will support maintenance of the A35, with space for four gritters, a 3,000-tonne salt barn and offices for operational staff and contractors. Completion is scheduled for autumn 2027. The construction agreement includes a commitment to spend approximately £2.47 million locally or through targeted supply chains, alongside two local jobs and opportunities for apprentices and students.
Three awards for Poole’s independent fishmongers
Parkstone Fisheries in Ashley Cross has collected three awards in 2026, recognising its traditional fishmongering skills and customer service. Run by Steve and Tess, the business received the National Federation of Fishmongers’ Award of Excellence for 2026/27, alongside an Excellence in Customer Service award at the Poole Business Awards and Best Retailer in Dorset at the Love Local Trust Local Awards. The shop’s fishmongers have more than 200 years of combined experience, preparing fresh fish and shellfish, supplying local restaurants and helping customers learn how to prepare and cook seafood.
Dorset Chamber joins regional business alliance
Dorset Chamber has joined Business West and Somerset Chamber to form the Wessex Chamber Alliance, giving employers a collective voice in discussions about regional devolution. Launched on 26 October, the partnership aims to influence decisions on infrastructure, skills, housing, investment and economic development. The three chambers have published an open letter calling for businesses to have a formal role in any future devolution arrangements, rather than being consulted after decisions have been made. The alliance will coordinate business priorities and responses to major consultations.
New managing director appointed at Polyhose
Christchurch-based Polyhose UK has appointed Ian Cochran as managing director as the industrial hose and fluid-connectors distributor prepares for further growth. Cochran has 30 years’ experience in the hydraulics and pneumatics industries, including senior roles at Pirtek and Flowtech. Part of an international manufacturing group employing more than 6,000 people, Polyhose operates a UK warehouse and distribution facility in Christchurch. Cochran says his priorities include improving customer service, developing new opportunities and increasing the company’s share of the UK fluid-power market.
Sturminster contractor progresses Shaftesbury hub
Hammond Building Contractors, based in Sturminster Newton, is progressing work on the new Mampitts Community Hub in East Shaftesbury. The company was selected by Shaftesbury Town Council following a competitive tender, with construction beginning in September. Groundworks and piling have been progressing, with delivery of the building’s timber frame expected in November. The project will provide flexible activity spaces, rooms for community services and a café. The council is targeting an autumn 2027 opening.
Chance of six months free SEO support offered
Dorset SEO consultant Mandy Cochrane is offering one small local business six months of free mentoring during 2027. The programme will include an initial website review, monthly strategy sessions and guidance on search performance, content and technical improvements. Applicants must already have a trading business and website, and be prepared to implement recommendations themselves. Applications opened on 2 November and close on 22 November, with mentoring running from January to June.
£15,000 investment creates new Poole content studio
Kindful Creative has opened a refurbished content-production facility at FOUNDry Poole, inside the Dolphin Centre. The agency has invested almost £15,000 in Kindful Studios, providing space for video production, podcast recording and social media content creation. The investment includes 4K cameras, professional lighting and recording equipment. The new facility is intended to give local businesses and content creators access to dedicated production space without establishing their own studios.
Reeve the Baker expands into Dorchester following investment
Reeve the Baker is preparing to open its 14th shop at 6 South Street, Dorchester during November, taking over the former Halifax premises. The expansion follows an investment in the family bakery business by private equity firm Piper, announced in October. Founded in 1952, Reeve is now a third-generation business employing more than 200 people, with annual turnover of around £12 million. The investment is intended to support further expansion into market towns across southern England. The company already operates shops in Blandford, Sherborne and Shaftesbury, making Dorchester a natural addition to its Dorset presence.
Cyber security certification discounted by 75%
Dorset’s small and medium-sized businesses can now apply for a 75% Government discount on Cyber Essentials certification, under a scheme launched on 3 November. Eligible firms will pay between £80 and £125 plus VAT for the assessment, which covers five basic security measures including firewalls, software updates and access controls. The £2.4 million fund is expected to support around 6,000 businesses nationally and is available on a first-come, first-served basis until March 2027, or until funding runs out. The discount covers assessment and certification costs, but not any improvements required to meet the standard.
See firststep.iasme.co.uk
New independent games shop opens in Dorchester
Independent retailer Snaps Games has opened a new shop in High West Street, Dorchester, bringing toys, board games, trading cards and collectables to the town centre. The expansion has created new jobs, with the business also planning gaming events and community sessions. The shop opened at the end of October, adding another independent retailer to Dorchester’s shopping streets. Its arrival comes as the town seeks to maintain a varied mix of businesses and attract shoppers beyond its existing retail offer. snapsgames.co.uk
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