A PUBLIC inquiry starts next week about proposals to replace 70 touring caravan pitches with 45 static caravans at Waterside Holiday Park in Weymouth.

Weymouth and Portland planners refused permission for the scheme last year despite plans to screen the 45 static caravans from view with trees and shrubs.

Councillors said they were still concerned about their visual impact.

Officers added that another reason for refusal was because there was a significant difference between static caravans and touring caravans.

But the park appealed against the refusal of planning permission.

The inquiry is due to start at Weymouth Pavilion on Tuesday, October 7, at 10am.