PLANS for The Marsh in Weymouth have taken a step forward and could see new facilities developed by September.

Councillors came together to discuss the future of the site at a Weymouth and Portland Borough Council policy development committee.

Committee members agreed to approve a draft action plan for The Marsh.

It comes after the management committee approved a masterplan at the end of last year.

The draft action plan sets out a schedule for the site’s developments, including a brand-new play area, skate park and more.

The facilities set to be developed this year include an improved planting area, new boxing clubhouse and play area, with the latter earmarked for development by September.

However Cllr Ryan Hope suggested the play area should be finished earlier to allow families to enjoy the new facilities during the school holidays.

Cllr Ian Bruce added: “It really just needs to get done and if we are putting up a play area it should be put up ready for the school holidays. Sorry it shouldn’t take more time. It is a matter of making sure we do things rather than talk about it.”

Tony Hurley, Leisure Commissioning Manager at Dorset Council’s Partnership, explained the dates given in the plan, are based on the availability of contractors. Officers still need to consult on the design of the play area, which will take place next month.

Plans for the play area are on public view today in a Friends of the Marsh consultation event at Weymouth Swimming Pool.

The action plan also sets out how the different developments will be funded, for example, the new boxing clubhouse will be funded by Weymouth Amateur Boxing Club, and outdoor fitness equipment will be funded by the Friends of the Marsh.

Concerns were raised at the meeting about whether the local government reorganisation would slow the plans if given the go ahead.

Cllr Hope said: “We are keen to see this continue when this council ceases to exist.”

A report put before the committee, says the implications of local government reorganisation on recreation sites such as The Marsh is not yet known, and for this reason the plans have been made for a two-year basis.

Cllr Kate Wheller, council spokesman for community facilities said she has been speaking with officers to ensure that checks are in place so that when the council ceases to exist, matters continue to move forward.

She added: “It is my job as the briefholder for community facilities that if this slips and doesn’t work it is my fault. I will be making sure to the best of my ability that this doesn’t happen.

“Friends of the Marsh are happy with the plan and are involved on a regular basis. It is my responsibility to ensure this doesn’t slip.

“If anyone wants to know about its progress they can ask me and I will tell them what is happening.”