Plans to demolish Wessex Hotel spark objections because residents don’t want ballroom to disappear

Last year developer Inland Homes revealed its “traditional villa-style” scheme for the site in West Cliff Road, on the corner of the Durley Roundabout, and it will go before councillors later this month.

The replacement of the current sprawling 109-room hotel with three six-storey blocks will, the firm claims, restore the historic layout of the site from 1902.

The number of flats has been reduced from 99 since the plans went on display, and the scheme includes 188 underground parking spaces.

It has been recommended for approval by officers, despite 43 letters of objection, mostly centred on the loss of the maple wood ballroom and lack of a replacement.

Margaret Noble, of Stourcroft Drive, Christchurch, wrote: “Bournemouth would suffer if this superb dance floor were to disappear as it attracts holiday makers and local people alike.”

Lynn Bayliss, of The Cloisters, Ringwood, said: “The failure to replace this fantastic facility would indeed be a loss for all dancers at a time when surely health promotion through regular exercise should be a priority for all local councils/authorities.”

In their report to the planning board, officers state that “there is no evidence available to suggest that there is an under provision of ballroom dancing facilities and it is suggested that Bournemouth is well provided with alternative locations”.

It cites ballroom facilities at the nearby Durley Dean Hotel, as well as five other hotels in the town.

The Bournemouth Civic Society has also objected, stating that if the scheme were to be approved “a much loved Bournemouth icon would be needlessly destroyed”.

According to planning officers: “The applicant has demonstrated that the conversion and refurbishment of the facilities is not viable, and a sustainable tourism offer is only achievable through the redevelopment of the entire site.”

The board is due to consider the scheme on Monday, May 15, at 2.30pm.