A NEW flat could be created at the former Coach and Horses in Winterbourne Abbas.

The pub, which has been closed for more than three years, is expected to open again in March re-named The Coach House Inn. It has been bought by Lee and Jo Worsley from The Kings Arms in Portesham.

Dorset planners are now being asked to consider an application for a manager’s flat on the site, creating a new entrance for it on the west of the building.

A letter from agents says the viability of the pub relies on the manager being on site 24-hours and that the re-opening will create local jobs. Comments on the proposals are open until March 10th

Other changes under a £250,000 refurbishment include re-opening the old coaching inn archway and internal changes to the bar, dining area and function rooms.

There will be five letting rooms available at the pub, as well as 34 parking spaces and a patio garden.