CHANGES have been proposed to a new out-of-town retail park set to be built in Weymouth in a bid to deliver the scheme as soon as possible.

As reported, the multi-million Weymouth Gateway scheme was approved in March and will transform undeveloped land opposite the Aldi supermarket.

Construction is due to start later this year - and now developers LondonMetric Property and Avercet have submitted plans to alter the layout, which will enable two of the confirmed retail giants to switch units.

The proposals seek a 'minor reconfiguration' of the retail terrace; minor reconfiguration of the internal ‘spine’ road and associated car parking alterations; and relocation of an external compound sales area at unit three to be moved to unit two.

Dorset Echo: Artist impression of the schemeArtist impression of the scheme

According to plans submitted to Dorset Council, the changes will mean that discount retailer B&M can switch places with Dunelm, in line with the retailers' requirements.

Occupiers have been secured for units two, three, seven and eight - however unit four has not been and will form part of a separate development phase.

As part of the revision, it is proposed that delivery times for unit four are to be reduced from 7am - 10pm Monday- Saturday and 8am - 7pm Sundays and bank holidays, to 8am - 8pm Monday to Saturday and 9am - 4pm on Sundays and bank holidays.

Support was received from Weymouth's Chamber of Commerce, whilst there was one objection registered from a neighbour regarding potential noise pollution, the level of tree planting, and disruption during construction work.

At a recent meeting of Weymouth Town Council's Planning committee, councillor Lucy Hamilton said: "Last time we discussed (the original planning application) we objected to it.

"Dorset Council approved it and the Secretary of State has since confirmed that the decision should rest with Dorset Council.

"These latest proposals relate to minor amendments including (vehicle) turning abilities and traffic; noise management and deliveries - I personally have no objection."

The town council had opposed the original application amid concerns about a lack of high-quality jobs at the site, as well as traffic and impact on shops in Weymouth town centre.

However, their objection was overruled and the development was approved.

At a meeting last week, members of the Weymouth Town Council Planning and Licensing Committee passed a unanimous vote of 'no objection' to the revisions.