Eight affordable homes could built on the site of the former Bridport coal yard off Rope Walks.

The application, from C G Fry and Son Ltd, asks for permission for five 2-bed properties and three 3-bed with parking for nine cars.

The site is in the centre of town, south of West Street and west of South Street, and is within the town conservation area.

It includes the former coal yard and a lock-up building as well as a former administration building and a brickwork warehouse.

Early comments on the proposal have welcomed the scheme – including resident James Tigg who said: “This is a refreshing proposal. The design is sympathetic with its surroundings, whilst compact the homes appear comfortably adequate, and car parking has been accommodated.”

The proposed development involves clearing all the structures on the site, the repair and enhancement of the north and south boundary walls and the construction of eight affordable, traditionally detailed houses along the north boundary of the site.

Seven of the houses would have an access path running along the existing boundary wall. The eighth house would turn through 90 degrees towards Rope Walks.

The application says that road access would be in the south east corner of the site with the houses having gardens and parking on the south side, accessible from the new driveway.

Said the application to Dorset Council: “The proposed development offers significant opportunities to enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area and the setting of listed buildings and has opportunities to better reveal the significance of this part of the conservation area.”

Comments on the proposal can be submitted to Dorset Council until January 18.