DESPITE some financial setbacks, the developers behind the renovation of a holiday park in Weston have said the future is looking positive. Planning permission was granted to M2 Services Ltd for the erection of 17 residential units and the upgrade of leis

DESPITE some financial setbacks, the developers behind the renovation of a holiday park in Weston have said the future is looking positive.

Planning permission was granted to M2 Services Ltd for the erection of 17 residential units and the upgrade of leisure facilities at Stoneleigh Holiday Park earlier this year.

The aim of the company was to have the leisure facilities, which were closed in October 2008 in anticipation of the revamp, open by spring 2009.

But the economic climate resulted in M2 putting these plans, including the building of the new units, on hold.

Martin Truman, legal advisor and company secretary of M2 Leisure, said: "As a result of the banking crisis the timing of the refurbishment and new builds has had to be reviewed."

However, the refurbishment and extension of 19 holiday homes at Stoneleigh, which has been re-named, Weston Bay, are near completion.

Mr Truman added: "Like any other developer it has found the last quarter of last year and the first quarter of this year challenging, but unlike many developers work has progressed through this period. The refurbished homes have been completely gutted and modernised."

The 19 transformed units are now on sale and there has been a high level of interest, according to Jane Summers of Knight Frank, the selling agents.

She said: "We have been delighted with the demand for these exceptional holiday homes and know that the recreational and leisure facilities will be a big draw for locals and visitors to the area alike."

Since March, M2 Leisure has been working alongside Normech, a project management company, which Mr Truman said has been a successful partnership.

He says work could start on the building of the new 17 residential units in 2010, depending on the sales of the refurbished holiday homes.

And the upgrade of leisure facilities, which M2 has said will include an indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, treatment rooms and gym, is now due for completion in 2010/11.

"Once the financial climate is more suitable discussions will start with important third party operators about working on the facilities," said Mr Truman.

The company is however facing possible enforcement action in relation to hording at the entrance of the park, which publicises the refurbishment.

Mr Truman said he is aware of this and the developers are in talks with the district council about it.

* The resort will be open tomorrow (Saturday) from 10am - 4pm for the launch of two show rooms on the site.