PLANS to extend the Weymouth Swimming Pool complex could go ahead despite concerns from residents.

Sports & Leisure Management (SLM) submitted proposals to Weymouth and Portland Borough Council to build an extension at the back of the complex in Knightsdale Road to expand the gym, plus provide an additional 36 spaces in the car park.

The plans are being recommended for approval at the planning committee next Wednesday.

The car park would be extended slightly towards the direction of The Marsh, meaning two trees would have to be removed.

Residents fear that a larger car park will just encourage more anti-social behaviour, including ‘boy racers revving and racing’ in the car park.

There are also worries about increased risks to an already ‘dangerously overcrowded’ Knightsdale Road to access the pool and gym.

The highway authority argues congestion on the road is caused by the lack of parking spaces and the car park extension would help improve the issue.

And Debbie Oldfield, Crime Prevention Design Advisor for Dorset Police, believes the building extension will help to alleviate anti-social behaviour, as the area for the extension is a gathering place. She is unable to comment on car park security but can provide updates if problems arise.

Some residents claim the Marsh needs extra trees and better maintenance. Work would require the removal of two trees which residents described as “irreplaceable” and “magnificent.”

A tree officer said their removal would have an ‘adverse impact’ on the area, and says only one more tree can be planted in its place.

A report to the committee says: “It is considered that the proposed development would, subject to conditions, have an acceptable impact on the visual amenity of the area, the residential amenity of nearby dwellings and highway safety.”