Weymouth's proposed Peninsula development could “severely impact” on the Weymouth Pavilion theatre, it is claimed.

Weymouth Civic Society has spoken out further against the parking provision at the proposed Weymouth Peninsula development which they stressed could “severely” impact on the theatre.

The borough council application which was submitted in June asks for outline planning permission for the demolition of existing buildings and the redevelopment of the site with a 120-bed hotel space, mixed-use pub/diner with guest accommodation, restaurants and café, indoor leisure buildings, a commercial fishing area and a mixed-use harbour building.

However, both the Pavilion theatre and Jurassic Skyline viewing tower will not be affected by the proposals and would remain where they are.

Pru Bollam, chairman of the society’s planning and environment committee said that the proposals could put the Pavilion at serious risk if insufficient car parking wasn’t provided on the peninsula.

She added: “Good provision is essential to maintain the operational success of the theatre.

“The current proposals provide totally inadequate numbers of spaces for the Pavilion alone, quite apart from requirements of the other proposed uses.

“The theatre is a key facility, of major importance to the town, and it is vital to Weymouth’s offer as a resort and to the town’s welfare in general that it continues to succeed.

“With the small number of parking spaces currently proposed, not only will the Pavilion be at risk of failing, but there will be a knock-on impact on the economic well-being of the whole resort.”

The society previously raised concerns about over the proposed ‘boutique hotel’ which they say would block off suggested vehicle access on the south side of the theatre, which they believe should be used as the main access route to the peninsula. They also stressed that another hotel would compete with Esplanade businesses.

Phil Say, director of Weymouth Pavilion also raised concerns about the loss of car parking spaces saying that the theatre had a slightly older patronage which like to park close to the venue.

Consequently, he stressed that any loss of spaces could make the venue “less attractive to visitors” especially older visitors.

Mr Say also added that many visitors who visit Weymouth like to park close-by and not use the Park and Ride facilities.

This trend he said meant that the car parking numbers should not be reduced.

Cllr Jeff Cant, leader of Weymouth and Portland Borough Council which own the freehold to the Pavillion said in response said that the council had to focus on the long-term for the Peninsula and stressed that there should not be much parking because they were trying to encourage less traffic into the town following the pedestrianisation of St Thomas Street. He added that £250,000 had also already been committed by the council to improve the external appearance of the theatre.

A council spokesman, added: “We are confident that the proposals clearly outline what is required to ensure Weymouth thrives as a 21st-century resort and will continue to take the proposals through the official planning process.”

The council are expected to determine the outline planning application later this year.