Five homes have been approved for a site to the rear of the Assembly Rooms off Gundry Lane, Bridport.

The Palmers-owned site, which has been used for storage and car parking, will see five traditional-style homes in brick with slate roofs.

Three of the homes will be two-bed, the others with three, arranged in an elongated terrace.

The application is identical to a scheme previously approved and was scheduled to be developed in 2020, but was delayed, due to the pandemic, and was about to expire.

Said planning agents in a statement to Dorset Council: "The result of this development will be of limited visual impact on the setting of the townscape due to its location in relation to the town's streets and limited volume in relation to neighbouring development. The use of natural stone, brick and slate roofs will ensure that it blends in to the existing built forms."

The site is within the town conservation area although previously added little to it with storage buildings described by the agents as "poor quality" made of concrete blocks and brick. These have since been demolished. It is thought the area was originally used as a drying area for the rope and net industry.

Said the agent: "This is a brownfield site located in the centre of Bridport which is surrounded by a mix of development including residential buildings, commercial premises and industrial buildings. The site is significantly enclosed which only allows public views from the entrance in Gundry Lane and from more distant vantage points on Priory Lane and the riverside footpaths ensuring that the physical and visual impact of the development will be minimal. The development of the site will produce an efficient use of this land providing five new dwellings in the heart of this sustainable town which will add to the housing numbers target for the planning authority. Although surrounded by heritage assets, within the conservation area, this proposal will not detract from their value due to the secluded position of the site."

Bridport Town Council had supported the application with the Dorset Council conservation officer giving support in principle although suggesting some changes to the detailing and materials being proposed.

The planning case officer concluded that the scheme would deliver benefits to the town by offering houses on a brownfield site.