The loss of a flat above a Dorchester South Street shop has been criticised by town councillors.

They say the proposal to block up a staircase at the Fat Face shop, with the resulting loss of a flat, is a backward step which they will formally object to.

Said Cllr Ralph Ricardo: "We should oppose this as strongly as we can. We have seen High West and High East Street businesses converted to residential use, but this is going the wrong way."

The application, for 14 South Street, asks for permission to "remove an internal staircase with the change of use from a flat to a void".

A final decision on the application will be made by Dorset Council.