A WEYMOUTH holiday park has claimed that allowing it to open throughout the year would provide a boost for jobs and the local economy.

The Waterside Holiday Park at Bowleaze is asking Dorset Council to use the whole caravan park, spread across almost 12 hectares, on a year round basis.

At the moment parts of the holiday complex has to close between January and March as a result of previous planning conditions, while other sections can stay open.

Restrictions would remain in force which prevent anywhere on the site being used as permanent accommodation.

The company say that modern caravans and chalets, with central heating and high levels of insulation, are capable of being used throughout the year and many owners want to use them during the February half-term school holiday. It points out that year-round use is allowed at other sites in Dorset and says that the Government is actively encouraging measures which extend and promote the holiday industry in the light of the pandemic.

“There are clear inconsistencies between various parts of the site in terms of seasonal restrictions…we would submit that resolving this situation would both clarify a currently very muddled situation and be to the benefit of the local economy and community,” said a report to the council from local planning agent Richard Burgess, on behalf of the operators.

The report says that even if year-round occupancy across the site is agreed it would not necessarily be open throughout the year as there may still be periods when the site, or parts of the site, would need to be closed for maintenance.

The Bowleaze Coveway area has been used for caravan holidays since shortly after the ending of the Second World War and has grown over the years, now incorporating lodges – a change recently agreed for the former touring field site.

Comments on the proposal are open for public comment until November 4th.

The full application, with a supporting statement and plans, can be seen on the Dorset Council planning website.