Dorchester's famous feline is getting her own statue after planning permission unanimously approved
Susie the Cat will forever be immortalised on the streets of Dorchester as she gets her own statue
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.
However, concerns were raised, namely the 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, which was then unanimously approved without discussion.
It was Poundbury resident James Honeychuck had made the planning application for the statue.
He suggested that one side of the plinth be a description of Susie, while the other might be used for a poem composed by the Bard of Dorchester.
One of the earliest supporters of the statue is Scottish resident Lorna 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.”
California resident and online follower Jacqueline Londhair also wrote in support: “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.”