A kitesurfing school is looking to expand by adding a bar - and has received support from a town council.

The proposal by CS Boardsports, at the Masonic Car Park, Portland, would expand the kitesurfing school and water sports shop to include a bar serving alcohol, soft drinks, snacks and refreshments.

The owner of CS Boardsports, Craig Smith, spoke to councillors at the Portland Town Council meeting on Thursday, September 18.

He said: "We are looking to create a 'family feel' bar and to bring some more kitesurfing events to Portland. This will just enhance that."

Mr Smith adds he intends for his business to become a social hub for kite surfers, and give parents whose kids are using the skatepark somewhere to go. 

Part of this would include expanding directly to the rear of the current building to erect a decking/beer garden area.

The area the decking would coverThe area the decking would cover (Image: CS Boardsports) Portland town councillors were supportive of the proposal, saying it would bring jobs to the island and enhance Underhill.

Cllr Tim Woodcock said: "In principle, I have no problems with the proposal.  It is going to enhance what Portland has to offer."

Cllr Carolyn Parkes added: "I think it is a fabulous idea. It will enhance an area of Underhill.

"It is going to provide jobs, it is a real winner for me."

Cllr Sandy West also voiced her support. She said: "There is not a high number of things there, so anything that brings more people to the island."

The council meeting on ThursdayThe council meeting on Thursday (Image: NQ) Another supporter of the proposal was Cllr Rob Hughes. He says younger people working in bars in Weymouth can struggle to get back to the island due to a lack of evening buses, so he welcomes a local employer.

However, despite his support for the proposal, Cllr Andy Carr voiced concerns that those drinking at the bar may then use the skatepark, saying it would not be safe. 

The owner Mr Smith replied that people can already drink and use the park as it stands. At least with a bar open - particularly with longer hours - they can have some control, he said, and all the staff are first aid trained.

CS BoardsportsCS Boardsports (Image: Google Maps) The business hopes to have the bar open by summer next year and says it already has three new employees lined up for the coming season.

It would be open from 11am to 11pm from April to October, with reduced hours in the winter.

Renovations are hoped to begin by late October, with all planning permission applications submitted by October 1.