HUNDREDS of campervans and caravans could be providing overnight accommodation to sailing competitors and spectators.

The Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy has applied for planning permission to allow the parking of campervans and caravans on the existing boat park.

The application requests that permission be granted for up to 102 campervans and caravans to be parked on the land.

It is a direct result of academy giving up an area of land, which had permission for the accommodation of campervans, to enhance the development of the Dean & Reddyhoff Marina at Osprey Quay.

Academy bosses said the permission was needed to ensure it has the ability to cater for the needs of all future water sports and sailing participants that will be based on site during training and events.

Visitors require a balance between the space to park boats and to accommodate campervans and caravans.

These camping facilities are only available to those who have a direct operational relationship with the academy.

John Tweed, chief executive of the academy, said: “The granting of this planning permission will assist the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy in attracting large events to the venue.

“These large events enhance the local economy and it is essential that everything is done to assist the sailors and their families who travel around the United Kingdom to attend many events.”