A west Dorset resident is attempting to tackle homelessness in his hometown.

Mark Howarth from Lyme Regis has proposed the idea of introducing ‘sleeping pods’ for homeless people in the seaside town.

He shared the idea to social media where it quickly garnered support from like-minded residents.

Mr Howarth is now calling for support from local residents and businesses to make this idea a reality and is looking for volunteers to contribute to the design, build, and maintenance of the pods.

Mr Howarth said: “After researching, I found that Germany has used sleeping pods to address homelessness, and this seemed like a solution Lyme Regis could adopt, showing both compassion and practicality.

"I am so passionate as I live locally and love Lyme Regis and to see what many people think is a city problem on my own doorstep really feels like a cry for help. I try to be proactive with any local causes in between work."

The local resident came up with the idea following the news that the Chinese Pavilion in Langmoor Gardens was set to be demolished – prior to the U-turn on the decision.

The decision was made to remove the landmark due to abuse by yobs - particularly 'drunkenness, signs of drug taking, and the urinating and defecation in public, at times during the day.'

However, councillors voted unanimously to reverse its earlier decision at a public meeting.

READ MORE: U-turn on demolition of Langmoor Gardens Chinese Pavilion

Mr Howarth added: “I understand the concern over homelessness but demolishing a shelter that so many in the town love was not the answer.”

He spoke of a successful initiative in Germany known as the Ulmer Nests, which offers temporary shelter for homeless individuals while connecting them to social services for regular check-ins and support.

At present, the idea would be to get the timber pods built locally.

Mr Howarth would also like to see the group working closely with the town council to find appropriate locations for the pods and ‘ensure they align with broader efforts to address homelessness.’

He added: "This initiative shows how we can offer help without losing the character of our town or ignoring those in need.”

Lyme Regis Town Council was approached for comment.