Large rear extensions are being planned for two Dorchester South Street shops.

The planning application, for 52 and 52A, asks Dorset Council to approve a two storey extension and to allow internal alterations.

If approved it will almost double the available internal space at the existing phone shop and adjoining former shoe shop, which is currently vacant.

The application, from a Taunton-based company which owns the site, says the changes will add around 210square metres to the combined buildings and allow for a better open-plan layout.

The proposal allows for the removal of the projecting gable extensions and adding a new flat roof parapet structure on the outside with internal works to include moving the existing staircase to the rear.

Said an agent's letter to Dorset Council: "The building at ground floor level has come to a point in its life whereby shops are looking for more open plan floor layouts. The proposal enhances the building and the needs of potential shop tenants."

Comments on the proposals can be made until February 23.