Councillors have backed the decision to progress with phase one of the controversial Weymouth Peninsula regeneration scheme.

In a meeting today, the shadow Dorset Council executive committee endorsed the decision made by Weymouth and Portland Borough Council's full council last week.

Backing from the shadow executive was needed for the next stage of the project to go ahead.

Phase one includes the creation of a 100-room hotel, a pub/diner with rooms, improvements to public space, a walkway around the site, and harbourside improvements. All-weather, year-round leisure attractions, marine facilities and restaurants are proposed in phase two.

Support was given for all of the recommendations – including approval for the business case, funding arrangements, and demolition of the former ferry terminal building.

The leisure-led development is aimed at strengthening Weymouth’s leisure and tourism offer and creating a year-round destination.

As reported, proposals were met with a hostile public reaction at the full council meeting last week, with claims that the council had taken little notice of the public consultation and were too secretive.

Hoteliers also said they are worried their businesses would suffer because of the scheme.

However the business case for phase one has previously been approved by Weymouth and Portland Borough Council’s harbour management board, management committee, and full council.

Cllr Jeff Cant, leader of Weymouth and Portland Borough Council and spokesman for finance and assets, said: "It’s fantastic that our regeneration aspirations for Weymouth have been supported by the Shadow Dorset Council executive committee.

"Today’s decision to support phase one of the Peninsula development is a massive step forward in bringing the town into the twenty first century.

"The redevelopment of the Peninsula will create a new and exciting destination that will complement nearby attractions, as well as enticing new visitor demographics and improving the harbour offering. Increased footfall driven by the peninsula and a greater reputation as an excellent year-round holiday resort will seek to benefit the town immensely.

"We are one step closer to the creation of a legacy site that will benefit many generations to come and we look forward to receiving planning committee’s decision for outline planning consent at the end of this month."

An outline planning application is due to be received by the borough council's planning committee on Wednesday, November 28.

The council said there will be an opportunity for local residents and the community to have their say and share their views on the detailed plans for the site as the project progresses.