A NEW plan for the site of Ferndown’s Dormy Hotel – which once attracted a host of stars from the worlds of showbiz and sport before it closed – is about to be submitted.

The three parts of the proposal could see a hotel, a care home and family housing on the site set among landscaped gardens.

Town councillors on the planning committee have been shown proposals for the New Road site by Design Q architectural and planning consultants of Bournemouth, working on behalf of site owners DeVere.

And Mike Hirsh, head of planning and building control at East Dorset District Council, said they are in advanced discussions.

The 8.5 acre site between New Road and Golf Links Road lies within 400m of Parley Common, a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Gary Worsfold, lead designer on the project, said he expects the application will be in before Easter.

He said they are working on high quality design proposals for a four storey hotel, with wedding facilities, sports and spa, landscaped gardens, and facilities to serve the community, a small number of homes and a care home.

“The Dormy plans are one of the most exciting investments to occur in East Dorset,” he said.

“At nine acres and with many beautiful trees the site represents a golden opportunity to create a sense of place and architecture which not only adds to the special character of Ferndown and West Parley but one which injects vigour and investment.”

Mr Worsfold said plans include Japanese themed ornamental gardens, a waterfall and grotto.

They have sent mail to 250 households about the plans, and have knocked on around 100 doors.

A further mailing will be sent out with illustrations of the final scheme.

The Dormy closed in December 2004 and the site has been targeted by arsonists several times.