Dorset Council has shared proposals for new buildings on the site of the former Weymouth & Portland Borough Council office at North Quay and the former MFA Bowl site in Weymouth. The council is inviting local residents and businesses to give their views on these proposals.
The proposal for the North Quay site is based on designs by Pentreath architects, originally produced several years ago. The proposal would involve demolishing the existing North Quay building, and rebuilding on site to reinstate the old High Street. The new buildings could provide 72 housing units and 2 ground floor non-residential units, plus parking, and would be in keeping with the historical character of the area. All rebuilding would be done to very high environmental standards, in order to minimise carbon impacts.
The former Weymouth Bowl site is located on St. Nicholas Street on the other side of the harbour. Dorset Council owns the freehold of the site and has acquired an option to purchase the long leasehold interest of part of the site from the existing tenant. The council proposes demolition of the current building, replacing it with new housing (potentially 59 flats of varying sizes). There could also be four non-residential ground floor units which could be used for commercial, community or leisure purposes.
Dorset Council is specifically appealing to residents, community groups and local businesses to come forward with suggestions and proposals for how the non-residential units on both sites could best be used. Ideas could potentially include retail or commercial units, community space, or even leisure, arts or museum uses.
Local residents and businesses have until 28 February to share their views and questions on the proposals – available to view online at www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/north-quay There is a simple online form to submit any comments or questions.
Dorset Council proposes to submit a detailed application for the two sites for Planning approval in early summer this year.
The benefits of the proposed schemes:
- Provides an appropriate and aesthetically pleasing proposal for use of both the North Quay site and the Weymouth Bowl site, in keeping with the character of each area
- Delivers new housing, including affordable housing
- Addresses environmental concerns
- Offers community space
- Provides sufficient parking on site
- Contributes to the wider regeneration of Weymouth.
Local residents, businesses and communities can watch a short online presentation outlining the proposals at https://youtu.be/pLpQ7CHGyAE
Cllr Tony Ferrari, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Assets and Property, with special responsibility for Regeneration and Development in Weymouth, said:
“Everyone agrees that something needs to be done about both the North Quay site and the Weymouth Bowl site. I believe we are coming forward with schemes that are positive, viable, will enhance the character of each area, and will contribute to the regeneration of Weymouth. By combining the two sites, we will also be able to deliver more affordable housing.
“Under predecessor councils, the North Quay site has had a chequered history, with a number of abortive developments. However, Dorset Council is a new council, and we will work with local people to deliver a scheme for Weymouth. We are keen to engage with local residents, businesses and community groups to bring forward a final proposal with the broadest possible support. Please take a look at the detailed proposals and have your say at www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/north-quay”
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