Decisions due on Weymouth BT street hubs

Two proposed BT street hubs in Weymouth town centre are set for planning decisions. Officers are recommending refusal for the Esplanade site, saying it would harm the conservation area. A second hub on St Mary Street is recommended for approval, despite some concerns. Police have also raised issues about potential misuse of the free services. A final decision is due at a planning committee meeting on April second.

Planning decisions are due on two proposed BT street hubs in Weymouth town centre.

Dorset Council officers are recommending refusal for the seafront site opposite 66 to 67 The Esplanade, saying the structure would be visually intrusive and out of keeping with the Weymouth Town Centre Conservation Area.

The hub would offer 5G connectivity, free Wi Fi and limited phone calls funded by advertising, but officers say its size, design, colour and LED screens would add to street clutter near listed landmarks including Johnstone Row, Statue House and the King’s Statue.

Dorset Police have not objected but have raised concerns about possible misuse, warning similar hubs elsewhere have attracted anti social behaviour and nuisance calls, particularly in busy night time areas.

In contrast, officers are recommending approval for a second hub on St Mary Street near the Black Dog pub, saying any harm would be “less than substantial” and outweighed by public benefits.

However, conservation officers disagree, arguing the structure would be too tall and visually dominant, with lighting and animated screens harming the street scene and nearby listed buildings, ahead of a final decision on April 2.