PROPOSALS to transform an iconic net-making site into new homes and restaurants have been submitted to planners.

Amsafe hope to transform The Court site in West Street into 16 new homes - as well as more than 300 square metres of floor space for cafes and restaurants.

The site was used by netting company Gundry's from the 17th century. AmSafe Bridport was formed in 1979 from the industrial division of Bridport-Gundry Ltd.

The plans have been submitted by Bournemouth based Lighthouse Land and Developments, and include demolishing part of a listed building.

Ian Kentfield, president of Bridport Amsafe, said: "We have not used the building in nearly two years.

"What we're doing is releasing some property for development.

"We see many disused buildings that don't get looked after properly. We want that part of the town centre to keep up to date with the rest of Bridport and it's a fantastic opportunity to turn something that isn't used into something really positive."

The buildings earmarked for development have not been used by Amsafe since October 2010.

As well as the substantial space for restaurants and cafes, the developers hope to convert the buildings to include eight one-bedroom flats, six two-bedroom flats and refurbishing two existing two-bedroom cottages.

The developers want to refurbish and remodel the existing Grade II Listed Court building in order to provide a mix of commercial use on the ground floor and homes on the three floors above. An existing two-story warehouse and office block behind The Court would be demolished to make way for additional parking and a new three-storey residential block of flats.

Amsafe has also moved to reassure the public that the business will not be affected by the proposals and that the development would be a positive thing for the town.

"There's absolutely no question of downsizing at all or anything of that nature" added Mr Kentfield.

"There is nothing negative about these proposals. In fact it will be a very positive thing for the town centre and release some space that isn't currently being used."

Bridport Business Chamber president Richard Smith has welcomed making use of the empry space in the town centre.

“It would be great to see disused buildings put to good use, but obviously what goes in any commercial areas will determine its success" he said. 

"With recent reports that Bridport has a very low percentage of empty shops compared to other towns more commercial facilities can only help improve on an already thriving retail area.”

Members of the public have until Saturday, June 13 to comment on the proposals at dorsetforyou.com