EXTENSIVE repairs and renovations are planned for a 'feature' farmhouse and other buildings near Dorchester which have been empty for years.

Parts of the site will be found new uses – including yoga and well-being classes in proposals for a former calf shed on the site.

The site, Chebbard Farm at Warren Hill, Chebbard falls within the parish of Dewlish, with outbuildings said to have holes in the roof, although some buildings in the courtyard-shaped complex have already been renovated.

Said a planning agent in the application to Dorset Council: "The main focus of attention and this current application is with the cluster of buildings on the east side of the highway. These comprise of the farmhouse and then a series of redundant farm buildings. All of the buildings are in a state of disrepair with holes in the roof, water ingress, structural decay and rot. The farmhouse has been unoccupied for approximately four years which has contributed to its decline with water running through the buildings due to holes in the roof…

"The proposal is to repair and renovate the site so that the buildings and site are placed in sound condition and given a use which will secure their future viability and allow them to actively contribute to the landscape and local area."

Dorset Council has agreed to planning permission for all of the changes.

Further details can be found on the council website by searching for references P/FUL/2024/05083 (farmhouse) and  P/FUL/2023/02542 (calf shed)