by Trevor Bevins, Local Democracy Reporter.
Dorchester’s Susie the Cat is to be immortalised with a South Street statue of the town’s friendly feline.
The pampered puss, which has her own Facebook page with thousands on follows, is having her statue paid for by an admirer.
It will stand just over 1metre tall, on the pavement outside Julia’s House Charity Shop, set on a low plinth.
Dozens of supporters, from throughout the UK and some from abroad, had written in favour of the planning application – although Dorchester Access Group said they were concerned it might be a trip hazard, especially for someone with limited viability.
Dorchester Mayor Les Fry proposed accepting the plans at a meeting of the area planning committee on Tuesday – it was approved unanimously without discussion.
Poundbury resident James Honeychuck had made the planning application for statue.
He suggested that apart from wording about Susie one side of the plinth might be used for a poem to be composed by the Bard of Dorchester.
Among the early supporter of the status is Scottish resident Iorna Dannerberg who told Dorset Council: “We come into Dorchester especially to see Susie. Her popularity is amazing and she has become a wonderful ambassador to the town. She clearly also brings people into the town and in turn supports local businesses. This is a wonderful idea to celebrate the life of an animal who brings so much joy to people. There cannot be any serious objections to this proposal.”
California resident and online follower Jacqueline Londhair also wrote in support – telling the council: “Although I will probably never meet Susie in person, she brings such joy to me and others around the world every day. I also thank everyone in Dorchester who posts about her and especially Jenny Graves who allows Susie to bless us all with her magical presence.”
A Spanish supporter asked the council to approve the plan telling councillors that it was a beautiful cat statue.
