NEW homes could spring up on the site of a former Weymouth factory after a developer made a third bid for planning permission.

The Betterment Properties scheme includes 17 two-bedroom flats, six one-bedroom flats, five two-bedroom and four three-bedroom houses, at the old W & J Tod engineering works off Portland Road, near Ferrybridge.

Borough planners have turned down previous applications twice before, citing loss of employment land and open space, and an inspector also dismissed an appeal. But senior planning officer Chris Moscrop has now given the green light to the new plans - which include nine units of affordable housing, four ground-floor homes for people with mobility problems and 43 car parking spaces.

Objections have been lodged by three groups opposed to the scheme.

The Wyke Regis Protection Society said the 'massive' development is entirely inappropriate on a shoreline site and will curtail beautiful views that will particularly affect the South West Coastal Path and Chesil Beach Centre.

Weymouth Civic Society said the proposed buildings were too bulky and too close to roads and traffic.

And the owners of the boatyard next door to the proposed site fear that the development could affect their business.

But English Nature withdrew its objections.

In a report to councillors, Mr Moscrop recommended that members approve the application, subject to conditions. Those conditions include paying £32,000 to improve off-site amenities and soundproofing the nearby Wessex Water pumping station, so that residents were not disturbed.

Mr Moscrop said: "In view of the amended submission now before you and having due regard to the comments of the planning inspector, I must advise you that subject to an appropriate agreement to cover a contribution towards off-site open space improvements, noise improvements to the adjoining pumping station and the provision of affordable houses and lifetime homes, this scheme is in my opinion now acceptable."

Weymouth and Portland Borough Council's planning and traffic committee will meet to consider the plans tomorrow.