Plans for five flats and shop at the former This 'N' That building in West Street have been given the green light by Dorset Council.

The Grade II listed building, currently made up of the former This 'N' That shop, two flats and a warehouse, will be refurbished and the warehouse turned into three flats, resulting in five flats overall.

The shop would be self-contained and no longer connected to the warehouse at the rear.

The plans received one letter of objection, which stated: "The application for a premise change for accommodation of about six people with the possibility of at least three vehicles requiring parking and no plans for these is ludicrous in an already congested area.

A neutral commenter asked if the housing would be used as holiday homes or holiday lets as more housing was needed for residents.

They said: "Sustainable towns need interesting retail outlets – not more food outlets/cafes which seem to be a plethora here. A good quality restaurant – great.

"Please do not agree usage not beneficial to the character of Bridport or short-term gain."

Bridport Town Council had no objections and supported the plans.

A stipulation of the planning approval is that no new windows or doors shall be installed until samples of materials for the shopfront, roof and external doors and windows of the proposal have been submitted to and approved by the local planning authority. Construction work should only take place 7am to 7pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 1pm on Saturdays.

The design and access statement said the conversion of the warehouse into flats is due to the retail unit not requiring the use of so much storage and is 'better utilised by conversion to dwelling' and 'the prosed flats are considered appropriate as they are close to the high street and are a sustainable location for amenities, work and transport links.

It stated: "The proposed alterations to the listed asset are not considered harmful to the historic character of the listed building. In the refurbishment, historic features will be restored therefore ensuring they are retained and enjoyed in the future. The proposed shop frontage would help reinstate a historic frontage along this grouping of shop fronts. The proposed refurbishment and conversion are considered proportionate and would provide an overall positive improvement to the character of Bridport high street.

"Overall, the proposed changes are considered proportionate and seek to protect the integrity of the existing asset, while being able to ensure that the space is well used and appropriately utilised t suit today's market needs."