PROPOSALS to build accommodation pods for homeless people at Weymouth's Park and Ride site were met by enthusiastic support from local councillors tonight.

Members of Weymouth Town Council's Planning Committee voted unanimously in favour of the project after the Bus Shelter submitted a planning application to create a total of 12 flats in mobile accommodation units at the Mount Pleasant site, based off Mercery Road.

Tonight's meeting saw Weymouth councillors lend their support to a five year temporary lease for the housing project - although the final decision still hangs in the balance as it ultimately rests with Dorset Council's planning committee.

If given the green light, it will see the creation of three purpose-built mobile accommodation units, each split into four individual self-contained rooms, for people to live inside within the overflow car park. In total, 12 flats would be created.

Tonight councillors questioned whether the site is the right location due to its distance from town centre amenities - but after an upbeat discussion, the committee agreed that the need for suitable accommodation for local rough sleepers, combined with the Bus Shelter's proven reputation for managing the complex needs of its clients - meant the decision was a no-brainer.

Pick up a copy of Thursday's Echo for a full report on tonight's debate.