RESIDENTS are being invited to an informal public meeting about plans for a major development at Newtons Cove in Weymouth.

As reported, Juno Developments has submitted a planning application to Dorset Council requesting permission to build up to 189 homes, a 65 bed care home and leisure facilities at the former Bincleaves QinteiQ site.

Concerns have been raised over additional traffic on congested Boot Hill, with the only alternative access route being via Hope Square.

The proposed development also comprises a gym, swimming pool / spa, restaurant, and up to 1,509 square metres of office /light industrial floorspace, along with car parking, public open space, public realm, cliff stabilisation and sea defence works, with vehicular and pedestrian access from Newton’s Road, and associated infrastructure. There are no 'affordable' homes included within the plan.

Dorset Echo: The development site at Newtons Cove in WeymouthThe development site at Newtons Cove in Weymouth

An informal meeting this Saturday will be an opportunity for residents to learn about the planning process, and how to submit a formal comment on the planning application.

It is being organised by local ward councillor Luke Wakeling, who sits on Weymouth Town Council. Town councillors are able to feed back concerns and comments to planning authority Dorset Council, as well as advising residents on how to make representations. The developer has also been invited to attend.

The meeting is being held at 3pm this Saturday, March 5 at Hope United Reformed Church on Trinity Street near Hope Square.