A PLAN to give Brewers Quay a multi-million pound makeover has been backed by councillors.

A three-storey hotel, eight flats, five holiday apartments and a wet weather tourist attraction will be added to the Weymouth harbourside tourist attraction.

Also included in the revamped complex will be three restaurants or cafes and 17 shops.

Developers were praised by the chairman of Weymouth and Portland Borough Council’s planning and traffic committee for banning supermarkets from the new look Brewers Quay.

They have signed a planning agreement that will only allow specialist food stores in the development.

Some 18 extra car parking spaces have been made available in the complex’s Newton Road car park by removing five of the existing coach bays. A coach set down area will be made available.

Developers Brewers Quay LLP have increased the number of car parking spaces for the 85 bedroom hotel from ten to 31 with 13 daily permits made available for guests.

Speaking at the committee meeting, chairman Peter Farrell said: “They have countered all the residents’ concerns. It’s a good scheme.

“I have been doing this job for 12 years and these applicants have been as good as gold.

“We know 2011 is going to be a very tough year but we have an applicant who is going to invest in the town to the tune of millions.

“I believe it will further transform the area.”

A new Weymouth Museum will be built in the development, increasing its floor space from 7,000 square ft to 13,500 square ft.

Roger Dalton, chairman of Weymouth Museum Ltd, said: “This is a great opportunity for the museum. It will allow us to have a much more effective schools programme.”

Applicant David Shaw told the committee that Brewers Quay was ready for a revamp.

He said: “It’s been over 20 years since it was transformed. The time is now for the heritage to be safeguarded.”

Nearby resident Charlie James said: “I am in favour of the plans.

“I think it could be a very exciting opportunity for the town.”

Members of the committee voted unanimously in favour of the development and listed building consent for the project.