The conversion of a former Netherbury garage into a home has been agreed by Dorset Council – despite local objections.

Brewing company, Palmers, had asked for the Brandon Garage in New Inn Street, just off The Square, to be converted to a two-bed home with the addition of a first floor. A kitchen and living-dining area will be created downstairs and two bedrooms and a bathroom upstairs.

The parish council said the scheme is not 'sympathetic' to the area and is worried about further traffic congestion.

Neighbours had complained that the addition of a first floor will lead to a loss of privacy with some also sharing concerns about parking.

One letter of objection said that the small workshop has been of 'immense value' to people of the village and should remain as a workshop for a small scale craft business.

"There is little employment in the village. It is a dormitory and retirement village blighted by too many holiday cottages and second homes which contribute nothing to village life," said the letter.

A similar application for a two-storey building on the site, made in March 2019, was later withdrawn after planning officers said they were unhappy about some aspects of the design, including the addition of the extra floor.

Changes have been made since then and a planning officer report concluded that the appearance and other aspects of the building is acceptable.