THE STORAGE area at a shop on Bridport’s West Street could be converted to flats.

Planning and listed building consent is being asked for the changes to 10 West Street, a Grade II early 19th Century listed building which housed This ‘n’ That.

The consent says there will be some demolition of internal walls to create five two-bed flats within the building. It currently has one two-bed and one thee-bed flat.

Proposals for the ground floor of the building also include new internal walls at the back of the shop in order to accommodate a commercial kitchen and a new service counter.

The building is on the southern side of the street, just west of the junction with South Street, and includes a vacant warehouse to the rear. The shop unit on the street will remain in use after being refurbished as part of the proposed changes. It is currently This ‘N’ That, which closed last year after 24 years in the town following a period of poor sales.

An agent’s report to Dorset Council says that shop units no longer require as much storage space and the proposal is to convert the existing storage area to the rear into self-contained living accommodation.

“The proposed internal alterations to the 19th century part of the building (that includes the shop and extension behind) are considered minimal and are balanced with the need to create a nicer living environment for the end user.

“The external works would see the refurbishment of the sash windows as well as the reinstatement of a shop front that is sympathetic to the building and provide an improvement to its appearance within the historic high-street. The proposed alterations, refurbishment and conversion is considered proportionate and balances the changes in market demands, alongside the desire to protect the building as a listed asset,” said a report to Dorset Council.

Public comments on the proposals are open until March 10.