WYKE Regis residents backed an alternative plan for land at the old army camp.

More than 100 people attended a public meeting held by the Wyke Regis Community Association – and chairman Louise Mason said all indicated their agreement for a Second World War military attraction there.

The land is being considered for use as a traveller and gypsy site with room for up to six pitches.

Stephen George, from the WW2 Preservation Society, talked to residents about the alternative plan.

Louise said: “We had a show of hands at the end, who was in favour, and everyone was unanimous. Something like this would celebrate the military history of this area, it would create jobs and provide a place for children to go on educational trips.

“Stephen has done all the background work and said the land has been offered for sale to him.”

The cost of implementing the first phase of the plan, she added, would be from £300,000 to £500,000.

The association will now consider supporting the scheme.

Louise said: “It was a positive meeting, now we know how the community feels and we can take stock and decide what to do next. It may be that we can raise some money and take a share in it. It’s not somewhere that’s going to make millions, it is a place to put Weymouth on the map and celebrate our history.”

The future of Value House was also discussed, with residents agreeing that they want the popular store to stay. Proposals to put 38 houses at the Mandeville Road site are currently at the pre-planning application stage.

Louise said: “We will have to wait and see what happens. We needed to know what the community thinks and now that has become clear.”

Cllr Gardner, West Dorset District Council’s spokesman for planning and county councillor for Chickerell and Chesil Bank, said: “I was impressed by the number of people who attended the meeting and were concerned about the future of the area.

“I opened Value House as Mayor of Chickerell and would be sad to see it close.

“If ever a planning application is submitted it will need to be addressed in accordance with local and national planning policy.

“I noted the proposals put forward for the development of a D-Day museum at the old army camp as an alternative to a gypsy site and will follow progress with interest.”