A ‘LANDMARK’ west Dorset building is to be converted into five homes with a new property built in the grounds.

The planning consent for Stonebarrow Manor at Charmouth also allows for the release from a condition which ties Stonebarrow Barn, in the grounds, to only be used by an employee working at the Manor.

Until now the Manor has been used for holiday makers but is now said to be no longer viable, its big group bookings undermined by the pandemic restrictions . Even before the pandemic the building had only been rented out for less than half the year.

Dorset Council’s area planning committee unanimously agreed the changes which will also see the existing entrance widened.

LBCD Ltd, who made the application, said changing the use of the main building from tourism to private housing, would protect the future of the building, allowing investment in the property which, as a business, had been difficult to sustain.

They say the changes will allow investment with upgrades to heating systems and insulation, fitting solar panels and electric vehicle charge points.

One of the conditions of the planning consent is a £36,000 contribution towards affordable housing in the area.

The main house will be sub-divided into two and three-bed homes with a 1980s extension at the rear of the building further extended to create a four-bed property. The new property will be built mid-way between the Manor house and the Barn.