COUNCILLORS have backed plans to redevelop a Lyme Regis pub.

Lyme Regis Town Council's planning committee agreed to give no objection to Palmer's Brewery's plans to refurbish the Pilot Boat Inn on Bridge Street.

Councillors were split as to whether to objection to the proposals, but Cllr Cheryl Reynolds, acting as chairman in the absence of Cllr Steven Miller, used her casting vote to determine the town council would give no objection to the plans.

The company is pushing ahead with the plans because it claims the existing rear function room has "reached the end of its life span". The new restaurant would be glass-fronted and could double up as a skittle alley - while letting rooms would also be available at the pub.

Deputy mayor of Lyme Regis, Cllr Michaela Ellis, spoke out against the plans.

She said: "I think it looks horrible.

"I do not think it does anything to the listed building. I object to part of it being pulled down."

Cllr Ellis' views were shared by Cllr John Broom who said he thought "it was overdevelopment of the site".

Some members spoke out in favour of the plans.

Cllr Jeff Scowen said: "I think it looks good.

"With all that glass, I think it looks fantastic."

Cllr Brian Larcombe believed "it sits back and I don't think it detracts from the building itself."

After the vote rallied the support of four councillors on each side of the argument, Cllr Reynolds decided to back no objection, stating "it is going to be approved anyway".

Councillors also backed plans for listed building consent.

Cllr Broom said: "It's not going to be a pub anymore, it will be a restaurant" while Cllr Ellis raised concerns about the "many listed buildings in the town", which she believes should be protected.

Members agreed to approve listed building consent, subject to the views of the listed building officer.

The plans will be heard by West Dorset District Council. To comment on the proposals,please visit dorsetforyou.com