An insatiably popular seaside resort, which attracts around two million day trippers every year, is slated to witness a surge in holidaymakers following a new 108ft attraction
A coastal gem often famed for having the UK’s ‘best beach’ has one giant plan to boost tourism. Sandwiched between crystal-clear waters and Dorset’s rolling countryside, Weymouth is a popular resort situated at the heart of the Jurassic Coast.
The charming town attracts a staggering two million day trippers every year, with the majority flocking to its Blue Flag sands which are consistently recognised in the European league tables. Steeped in history, this iconic beach was first made popular by the frequent visits of King George III in the late 1700s – who is thought to have developed a penchant for having a paddle in Weymouth’s warm waters.
“Weymouth’s sheltered bay, gradual sloping seabed and exquisite waters offer swimmers, bathers and water sports enthusiasts idyllic and safe conditions to suit every taste,” hails Visit Dorset, the area’s official tourist board. “The internationally recognised beach is a frequent host to festivals, sporting championships and a wide range of events for all to enjoy. An ideal destination for families, with attractions such as, Punch and Judy, donkeys, children’s rides and pedalos – so there is plenty to keep the young ones occupied.”
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In the summer, Weymouth Central Beach transforms into a huge fairground, filled with quintessential rides that make for a great family day outing. This year, a new 108ft (33m) tall attraction is joining in on the fun.
The Observation Wheel, believed to be similar to the Ferris Wheel in Skegness, will boast some of the best views of the town – and is being funded by the operator, not the council. Speaking to the Mirror, a council spokesperson said: “The rides have been merged onto one site this year, and we’re excited about a brand-new attraction coming to the beach this season – an observation wheel.
“The rides located on the merged site include: the trampolines, the balloon ride, the pirate coaster, the pirate ship, the paratrooper, the helter skelter, and the chair o plane. These popular rides are being set up currently and are due to start operating once this is complete.”
The council added that the observation wheel will be set up after the other attraction sites. It has yet to announce an opening date.
Dorset Council says it received no comments of support for the wheel and 38 objections. Dozens of locals argued the ride would have a negative impact on the beach – with one resident arguing: “We are turning [the beach] into a funfair. This is not what people come to Weymouth for. We will drive people away.”
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The controversial plan comes amid rising concern over ‘moronic’ antisocial behaviour in the area, along with unpleasant smells from people smoking drugs. As previously reported, town dwellers and entrepreneurs have spoken out following the seeming spike in brawls, public drinking, and drug transactions in the area.
Lee Waugh, 57, is a military veteran and long-term resident of Weymouth who claims the situation has been escalating. “The levels of the problems seem to be higher,” he said. “For example, we need tables out the front to showcase our clothes and bring people into the shop, but opportunists steal them. It’s a catch 22. It’s a problem in town – groups can cause mayhem.
“[The council] need to issue more orders to keep them out of town, and actually enforce them. I’ve noticed in the winter it doesn’t seem so bad, but come the summer I fully expect it will return. There’s a lot of weed – you can smell it. People don’t even hide it through town, they’re walking up and down the street with it. It’s the pack mentality with groups, just yobs who are only young – my mate got beaten up and had to go to hospital.”
Janet and David Dye, 67 and 71, live in Essex – but often visit Weymouth to visit their son who lives in the area, agree things in the town are turning sour. “If you are drinking a bottle of beer in the street, the police should stop you and tell you to tip it out – that’s supposed to be the law,” David said. “But a lot of the time they won’t, until someone complains that they’re drunk. But weed is the main problem, and the authorities shouldn’t let everyone do it.”
When asked by the Mirror what was being done to tackle anti-social behaviour Dorset Police pointed to its Safer Street Partnership which aims to not only identify those committing unruly acts on the street – but to also help ‘change their behaviour’. The initiative, which has garnered support from Dorset Council Community Safety Team, The Bus Shelter, REACH, Lantern Trust Housing Team, Shelter and Julian House, follows the principles of ‘Engage, Educate and Enforce’.
Sam Goom, Inspector for Weymouth and Portland Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Over the last five years reported anti-social behaviour in the town centre has reduced by over 40 per cent. The Safer Street Partnership is an integral part of that success. Our collaborative effort to tackle street-based ASB has made a huge difference – our partners work extremely hard to find long-term solutions. They are a great bunch, and I am thankful for their continued commitment. There is always more to do but definite progress is being made.”
Councillor Jon Orrell, Mayor of Weymouth, added: “Partnership working delivers far-reaching benefits to the most vulnerable members of our communities, whilst also helping residents. The town benefits from joined-up teamwork, and it’s good to see how much has been achieved over the last five years. Well done to all involved in this ongoing work.”
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