Buying a flat

The Old Shipyard Estate offers a rare combination of 999-year leases, resident-led governance, and a prime coastal location in West Bay, Dorset. Whether you're seeking a permanent home, a holiday retreat, or a long-term investment, the estate provides:

Quiet, well-managed surroundings
Strong community values
Easy access to the beach, harbour, and Bridport town centre
A mix of flats and garages within a private, landscaped setting

The estate is currently undergoing a strategic upgrade to restore and enhance its appearance, infrastructure, and long-term value. This includes:

Major Building Works

A multi-phase programme is being costed and planned to address key areas of the estate’s structure and presentation. Works under consideration include:

Full re-facing of the central apartment block, enhancing visual appeal and ensuring long-term protection against the coastal environment
Roof replacement at the Esplanade block, improving weather resilience and structural integrity
Garage blocks to be refaced, reroofed, and fitted with new aluminium doors, creating structurally sound and visually improved units
Balcony repairs and redecoration, including cleaning and repainting of metalwork
Render patching and external wall treatments across multiple blocks
Replacement and refurbishment of rainwater systems, including gutters and downpipes
Repainting of external timber elements, such as window surrounds and door frames
Hardstanding and footpath repairs, with sealing compounds to reduce weed growth and improve safety
Estate signage upgrades to enhance identity and wayfinding
Installation of seating in shared green spaces, encouraging neighbourly interaction

These works are designed to protect the estate for the future, reduce reactive maintenance, and elevate its overall presentation.

What buyers should know

Lease Length: Typically 999 years from 1994
Ownership: Each flat comes with a share in the management company
Service Charges: Currently approx. £4,000/year per standard unit, supporting major works
Parking: One permit per unit; no visitor parking; garages must remain tied to flats
Pets: Welcome, with dogs on leads in communal areas
Governance: Managed by a resident-led board with professional support from Evolve

The estate is overseen by a resident-led board of directors, supported by Evolve Block & Estate Management Ltd. Together, they ensure:

Transparent financial management
Clear communication with leaseholders
Strategic planning for long-term improvement
A collaborative approach to community standards