Dorset Council takes over lease of former Weymouth bowling alley amid flats plan

Dorset Council has successfully taken over the long lease of the former MFA Bowl site, which means a planning application can now be submitted.

As reported, last year the authority unveiled a proposal for affordable flats and commercial units to be built at the St Nicholas Street site, which comprises the car park and bowling alley building.

The council already owns the land, but the acquisition of the lease was also needed before any plans could go ahead. The transaction was agreed on January 13.

Artist impression of the proposed flats

Cllr Tony Ferrari, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for Economic Growth, Assets and Property, said: “I am pleased to announce that the council is now in possession of the leasehold interest relating to the former MFA Weymouth Bowl site.

“While Dorset Council has always been the freeholder, the acquisition of the long leasehold interest now allows us to apply for planning consent to demolish the current building and move forwards with plans for development.

“We hope this site will offer opportunities for much needed housing in the area, contributing to a better future for Weymouth. Residents will be able to comment on proposals put forward for this site through the formal planning process. The next step will be to carry out an archaeological survey of the site, much like we did at North Quay and we will publish details of this as soon as we have them.”

The proposed scheme would see the demolition of the bowling alley building and comprehensive re-development of the site to include 59 flats offering affordable housing and four commercial units all with parking facilities. The site is in a conservation area.

Kevin Marsh, head of licensed leisure at Savills, said: “We are delighted to complete this sale of the long leasehold to Dorset Council who will reinvigorate the site and local area through redevelopment.”