DEVELOPERS say a controversial development will 'transform' the Newton’s Cove area of Weymouth - despite concerns over building heights and traffic. 

The site was previously home to defence research company QinetiQ, but it has been empty for many years.

The Dorset Echo was given exclusive access to the site, where developer Juno Developments plans to build 141 apartments, restaurant, office space and care home.

Developers say the project will create 200 jobs and 'bring back to life' a waterfront site which has been disused for many years.

The plans, which were first floated back in 2021, also include a viewing platform, coastal path and facilities for swimming and water sports.

The plans have previously proved controversial among locals due to concerns over increased traffic to nearby busy roads such as Boot Hill.

There have also been concerns that the height of the proposed development could be detrimental to the World Heritage site. 

Developers say they have worked with local people and some changes to the plans have been made, which were unveiled in November 2022. 

The proposal now includes fewer apartments, and the height of the buildings has been reduced, they said. 

Director James Dean said: “Consultation from local people has shaped the process.

"We have reduced the height of the development; we don’t want to spoil anybody’s view.

“The consequences were, we have reduced it by 50 apartments. That has a knock-on effect on social housing.

"We are disappointed but we have less units now so we do what we can."

On concerns over traffic, Mr Dean said: “We conducted a report which is quite clear, it says it will add around one extra car every six minutes.

"It is science and that’s what the highways report has said, they are content it will not be a big issue.

“I think Weymouth is so undervalued, it hasn’t had its moment. I am really excited about it."

Juno Developments is applying for planning consent for the project and said it will be investing in flood defence and cliff stabilisation work. 

The Environment Agency says these improvements are needed to protect the area from the impact of climate change.

Local resident Stephen O’Reilly lives a five-minute walk away from the site.

He said: “There is going to be disruption during construction, that is life.

“I am glad to hear it is going to be open to the public, I think that was a problem with the original sheme, it was going to be a ghetto for the people that lived here."

Another local resident Helen Tawse added: “Weymouth has huge amounts of potential that has just been ignored. This is a really strong catalyst for getting attention to the town.

“I take on board the issues with Boot Hill - I am one of those people who will be affected by the lorries.

"I think I am willing to forgo that for the investment in this town, which it desperately needs."

The plans are available to view at planning.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/plandisp.aspx?recno=379506