BUSINESS leaders have urged councillors to think again over controversial plans for the redevelopment of Weymouth's Pavilion.

On the eve of a special meeting to consider the latest proposals by developer Howard Holdings, traders say not enough has been done to investigate viable alternatives.

Weymouth and Portland's Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Trade has previously voiced its opposition over amendments to the original masterplan to increase the height of the development and expand the marina.

Now the organisation is claiming Weymouth and Portland Borough Council and Howard Holdings have carried out 'insufficient investigation' into alternative schemes and how they could be funded.

The latest proposals by Howard Holdings include raising the height of the development from six to eight storeys, to provide 337 apartments, and expanding the marina from 150 to 290 berths.

In a letter to the council, former chamber president David Beaman said: "As an organisation representing business interests, we obviously appreciate the need for Howard Holdings to make a reasonable financial return, especially given their commitment to fund the civic facilities that are included in the proposed development.

"It is, however, our opinion that there has been insufficient investigation of other methods of funding the proposed redevelopment to avoid the need to raise the height of the proposed redevelopment, to increase the numbers of apartments provided or increase the number of berths."

Mr Beaman added: "It is our opinion that increasing the height would have an unacceptable visual impact that will deter people form visiting the town with a consequential detrimental economic impact on the town.

"We are also very concerned that any increase in the number of apartments and marina berths would create additional transport demands that cannot be supported by the existing road infrastructure.

"It will also result in additional carbon emissions at a time when there is concern over the environmental consequences of global warming."

The council's management committee will meet at the Pavilion to discuss the consultation at 2pm tomorrow and Mr Beaman will address members on behalf of the chamber.

Mr Beaman said Howard Holdings turned down an invitation to attend a consultation meeting held by the chamber over the latest proposals, but he assured councillors that the organisation did still support the redevelopment project in general.

He said: "Redevelopment of this site will bring considerable financial investment to the town from which new employment opportunities will be generated and from which local businesses will obviously benefit.

"The chamber has consistently supported the proposed redevelopment and has not been afraid of standing in the council chamber and being a lone voice supporting the redevelopment amongst considerable voices of local opposition."