A former opticians shop in East Street, Bridport has been given consent for a change of use to a restaurant, bar and take-away, despite the objections of some neighbours.

Bridport Town Council had objected to the playing of music from Sins Grill & Bar which could be heard from the street – but raised no objection to the change of use.

The retrospective application for the listed building was submitted by Sins Catering.

During the consultation phase, one comment was received about disturbance to guests at the hotel opposite and another about noise, food smells and disturbance to other neighbours.

A planning officer report concluded that the town centre site was surrounded by a number of restaurants and public houses and, as such, was in keeping with existing uses. But they have recommended that opening be restricted to 11am until midnight Monday to Thursday and 11am until 2am Thursday to Sunday.

This approval does not include listed building consent and any internal or external alterations will need separate permission.

Officers says the change of use agreement does not authorise use of the external courtyard for eating or drinking which would need a separate planning permission.