Weymouth Bowl redevelopment plans one step closer
Dorset Council has acquired the long leasehold interest meaning it can move forward with plans to redevelop the site
Dorset Council is one step closer to plans for new flats and retail units at the former Weymouth Bowl site.
The local authority completed on the acquisition of the long leasehold interest in the former Weymouth Bowl site on 13 January.
It means the council can now apply for planning consent to demolish the building. It plans to build 59 flats and four non-residential units on the ground floor for retail, commercial, workshops/studios or offices.
The Weymouth Bowl site and car park on St Nicholas Street, Weymouth was occupied by MFA Weymouth Bowl, which closed down in April 2019. The site is in a Conservation Area.
Cllr Tony Ferrari, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for Economic Growth, Assets and Property, said:
“I am pleased to announce that the council is now in possession of the leasehold interest relating to the former MFA Weymouth Bowl site.
“While Dorset Council has always been the freeholder, the acquisition of the long leasehold interest now allows us to apply for planning consent to demolish the current building and move forwards with plans for development.
“We hope this site will offer opportunities for much-needed housing in the area, contributing to a better future for Weymouth. Residents will be able to comment on proposals put forward for this site through the formal planning process. The next step will be to carry out an archaeological survey of the site, much like we did at North Quay and we will publish details of this as soon as we have them.”
The proposed scheme would see the demolition of the bowling alley building and comprehensive re-development of the site to include 59 flats offering affordable housing and four commercial units all with parking facilities.
Kevin Marsh, Head of Licensed Leisure at Savills, said:
“We are delighted to complete this sale of the long leasehold to Dorset Council who will reinvigorate the site and local area through redevelopment.”