PLANS have been lodged to extend a beachfront sauna after the success of the current Nordic facility.
The Saltwater Sauna has been located on Sandbanks promenade since 2021.
Initially a temporary unit, the business was hugely popular so a new, purpose-built sauna was built in July, 2023.
Now, the company wants to add another sauna to the site, following its continued success and popularity.
A design and access statement submitted to BCP Council by Pure Town Planning on behalf of the business said the previous plans had received ‘significant’ public support.
It said: “The application received significant public support from local residents and visitors, with the Council’s Tourism Officer noting that 'The saltwater sauna will be a positive asset to the destination and tourism offer.'"
“Due to the success of the current sauna and high demand from local residents and visitors, the operators are seeking to extend the existing sauna to provide additional capacity at the site.”
The new scheme would extend the current building, which includes changing rooms and a sauna, adding another sauna for eight people.
The statement said the business currently attracts tourists and locals, and sauna and sea swimming enthusiasts, aged between 13 and 85.
The sauna’s location on the beach is ‘essential’, as it allows users to do ‘contrast therapy’, alternating between the hot sauna and the cold sea.
“Aside from the health benefits, as a result of the proposal, the development contributes positively to function of Sandbanks beach as a key tourist destination, making best use of its unique beachfront location, its customer offer and ensuring the business remains profitable and BCP’s economy remains prosperous,” the statement said.
“The proposed extension to the existing building has been carefully designed in order to provide a high-quality development, which aligns with the existing building and continues to realise the potential of this unique site along Poole’s seafront.”
It added: “It will continue to make the best use of the site in a highly desirable and unique location, providing an extended sauna offering for tourists and residents alike.”
A neighbour consultation on the plans runs until March 24, with no date set for a decision at this stage.
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