I AM writing in regard to Jeremy Bull’s letter (Echo, February 13) as well as to the articles on the decline of the Town Centre, the closure of Sharky’s and the plans for the Pavilion Theatre, published yesterday.

These stories are all linked. Mr.

Bull rightly states that bold action is required to reverse the decline of Weymouth and Portland.

Mr Bull points to the failure to find an economic driver to replace the loss of the MOD. He is also correct in his assessment that successive corporate plans and master plans have identified the need to move away from the low wage seasonal employment that characterises the tourist industry to higher value, higher skilled jobs.

Over the past several years we have made a series of proposals for the responsible development of the peninsula which we believe works to achieve these objectives.

We have asked that the management committee consider our proposal alongside the leisure led scheme for the peninsula that is currently being discussed.

We can demonstrate that a significant residential-led mixed use development, one that is both derisked and economically feasible, can be undertaken immediately.

Our proposal would include residential development in both flats and townhouse configuration, a boutique hotel and spa, a destination restaurant, and specialist retail and commercial/incubator units, creating an active and attractive 365-day environment.

The development has also been conceived to act as a natural extension of the town out onto the peninsula from both Commercial Road and the Esplanade.

We would provide funds for the refurbishment of the Pavilion Theatre which now stands in isolation but would become the central focal point for the new quarter.

There is also potential for a new marina and berths along the river in place of the ferry, which would accommodate larger, deep draught yachts.

Our £125m investment, which would add over £20m to the economy per year during and after construction, would kick start the regeneration process. We would be creating jobs and attracting new residents and visitors.

The closing of Sharky’s illustrates just how vulnerable the leisure sector is. I have questioned the advisability of the council acting as developer as it retains all the risks for the cost of construction and for commercialisation.

I also believe it is inappropriate for the council to exploit its access to less costly financing and its willingness to forego a proper return on its investment to subsidise the development, thereby giving the council an unfair competitive advantage over other locations.

Fortunately, the conditions exist today that enable the decline to be reversed and the regeneration of Weymouth and Portland begun.

The successful and continuing development of Poundbury and of Brewery Square in Dorchester, as well as the early success of Silverlake in Crossways demonstrates the ability of West Dorset to attract high-end new residents and year-round holiday makers.

Weymouth, with its exceptional location, can capture its share of this market.

Jeffrey W Heintz

Maidenhead Berkshire

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