PLANS to build more than 50 flats on a former bowling complex site in Weymouth have moved closer to fruition, with the council hoping to make an announcement in the coming weeks

Dorset Council announced last January proposals to demolish the former Lakeside MFA bowling alley in St Nicholas street and build 59 flats and four no-residential units on the site -alongside plans to develop the North Quay site.

However, the authority is still working on acquiring the leasehold of the site, which gives the council the right to occupy the land.

Dorset Echo: Former bowling alley site in St Nicholas Street. Picture: Sam McKeown

A Dorset Council spokesperson said: “Dorset Council already owns the freehold of this site and we’re currently in the process of completing the acquisition of the leasehold interest.”

The freehold means that the council ultimately own the site but will need to acquire the leasehold to develop their plans.

The spokesperson added: “Once the leasehold interest is secure we will be in a position to seek a developer partner to work with us on developing this site, along with that of North Quay.

“We are keen to see progress on both these sites so as soon as the legal transfer of the site is complete we will be able to move forwards.”

The bowling alley closed down in April 2019 after it was discovered the building was in need of around £200,000 worth of roof repairs and since closing the site has remained empty.

Plans unveiled by the council last year said the 59 flats would offer affordable housing close to the town centre complete with parking for residents.

The flats are set to be located above four non-residential units which could be used for retail, as commercial outlets, as a workshop, studios or offices.

As the development falls within the town centre conservation area it means any new development must be in keeping with the style of other buildings in the area.

Dorset Echo: Artist impression of proposed affordable homes at former bowling alley site Picture: Dorset Council

Dorset Council said plans fulfill this criteria with the proposals ‘in keeping with neighbouring buildings and the character of the area, including materials such as brick, stone and render’.

Last February residents and businesses were encouraged to share their views and ask any questions on the new scheme.

The spokesperson for the council added that the authority ‘hopes to be able to make a statement on the situation in the coming weeks’.