New Weymouth Caddy Shack plans recommended for approval

A previous application was turned down by Dorset Council

Author: Trevor Bevins, Local Democracy ReporterPublished 11th Apr 2024

A popular catering kiosk at Weymouth Rugby Club is being recommended for approval – after a previous application was refused following complaints from a neighbour about noise and smells.

The new planning request to Dorset Council is for a new site within the club grounds, further away from homes which back on to the sports ground, and closer to the clubhouse at the eastern end of the car park.

A planning officer report to councillors, who will consider the application next week (Thursday 18th April), says the use of the site would not compromise town centre catering businesses and would compliment to Lodmoor Trail and Country Park.

The application for the Caddy Shack comes before councillors because the site is owned by Dorset Council.

The application suggests it would support one full-time and four part-time jobs.

A report to councillors says the new location, 50 metres away from the previous position, should be acceptable for everybody:

“The relocation of the kiosk and reorientation allows the issues of noise which led to the previous refusal of planning permission to be overcome and result in an acceptable impact upon amenity."

The previous kiosk site, at the opposite end of the car park, resulted in an appeal which was dismissed by the Planning Inspectorate, following the council’s refusal of a retrospective planning application.

The 6 metre by 2.5 metre former shipping container, clad in timber, has been fitted out with kitchen equipment with a serving hatch in one side and will have seats and tables for customers outside, enclosed by a post and rail fence.

Eight public comments were received about the new application – most stressing the popularity of the business, describing it as an asset to the town and a welcome refuelling stop and place to chat for walkers and dog walkers.

Said a council statement: “unlike the previous application, no objections have been received and objectors from the previous application have commented to confirm that they are content with the new location.”

The opening hours are likely to be 9am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and 9am until noon on Sundays.

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