PERMISSION has been given for barns and outbuildings at West Knighton Farm to be demolished and replaced by eight new homes.

Dorset Council has agreed the proposal around the farm yard at the Highgate Lane property, directly opposite the village church.

An agent for the owner says that the current buildings are not economically viable or safe to convert. The new homes are proposed to be built in brick, stone and flint with timber double glazed windows in a traditional style with the development providing parking for up to 23 cars, three more than at present.

The proposal is for three-bed homes with one four bed property and one two-bed.

The consent comes after a number of attempts to develop the site over several years, including a dismissed appeal. The main issues for previous application have been the impact on the village conservation area and the church, with concerns raised previously by Historic England and the Dorset Council conservation officer.