PROPOSALS to demolish the derelict British Legion Clubhouse in Hamworthy, replacing it with eight houses, could soon be decided.

Borough of Poole (BOP) planning committee members are set to rule on the application when it comes before them tomorrow.

Carlton Developments (Poole) Ltd want to build four one-bedroomed houses and four three-bedroomed homes at the Blandford Road site, which is next to the Hamworthy Liberal Club building.

While the recommendation from council planning officers is to grant permission, the Hamside Residents Association and the Poole Quays Forum both object. to the development.

In a letter to the BOP’s planning department, Bill Constance, chairman of Poole Quays Forum, outlines a number of reasons why.

Mr Constance said: “The proposal will not deliver a suitable mix of land uses for this location and will deliver a poor-quality environment for existing and proposed residents and the wider Hamworthy area.”

Meanwhile, Hamside Residents Association chairman Ann Smeaton says her group is opposed as the plans “conflict with the BOP Core Strategy.”

The core strategy document sets out the broad principles for development in Poole up until 2026.

Neighbour Manual Perez, of Coles Avenue, has written to the council in support of the plans

He said: “I have no objection to the proposed development in relation to the this designated site, subject to the proposal being carried out in strict accordance with the details of the application.

Meanwhile, another Coles Avenue resident said: “I would like to support this outline plan for the legion site as it seems to offer housing that would be suitable for the area without impinging on the existing properties round the site.”

The single-storey British Legion hall has sat unused for a number of years. It is currently boarded up.

In his report to committee members, planning officer James Gilfillan concluded: “The social, economic and environmental benefits of delivering a range of housing in the local centre that would support the needs of residents and vitality and viability of the local centre.”

BOP’s planning committee will consider the plan tomorrow, after 1pm, at the Civic Centre.