Weymouth's Jurassic Skyline tower to remain for another five years

A unanimous decision was reached by Weymouth and Portland Borough Council’s planning committee to grant the applicant Merlin Entertainments temporary planning permission until November 2022.

The current planning permission for the attraction on the Pleasure Pier expired on November 30 this year.

The tower is currently closed for the winter, and is expected to reopen in spring.

At the meeting, Cllr Ian Bruce said: “In planning terms it seems to me a no brainer, we allow them to move forward.”

Cllr Bruce also suggested the committee grant the applicant permanent planning permission on the basis that after the five-year period the applicant is likely to apply for further planning permission.

He said: “The whole aspect of the peninsula, which is coming to planning, will give us the opportunity to look at the whole of the site but my understanding is the council wants to keep Merlin involved in the development and offer. I would say it is the number one attraction in the town.

“I suggest we give them permission because we are basically saying they want to come back again.”

His proposal was declined by the committee.

Cllr Margaret Leicester highlighted that the applicant agreed to temporary permission rather than complete a new flood assessment.

Cllr Kevin Brookes said: “I think we should go ahead with what has been proposed.

“I think it is a fabulous attraction for the town. I am sure there is a club somewhere where people go all over the world visiting these towers. It is a great attraction and something that has become part of the borough. “ Craig Dunkerley of Merlin Entertainment and Hannah Whitney of development consultants Lichfields attended the meeting and welcomed officers’ recommendations praising the tower and its economic benefit to the community.

Cllr Margaret Leicester questioned Mr Dunkerley on the recent breakdown at the tower, which took place in September.

She said: “Concerns have been expressed about the recent breakdown. There was concern that people were left up there. Have you got any plans for emergency escape?”

Mr Dunkerley replied: “It has been distressing for us and the people who were up there. We take it very seriously, the answer is yes, we have been undertaking a thorough investigation. I don’t think it links to the planning application, but I am happy to meet with members and discuss it.”

Jurassic Skyline, formerly known as Weymouth Sea Life Tower, was built in 2012 ahead of the Olympics.

It offers 360 degree panoramic views of the coasts of Weymouth, Portland, Lulworth and beyond.