Part of a Manor site on the outskirts of Dorchester could be converted to holiday use.

The owners of Higher Melcombe Manor at Melcombe Bingham are asking Dorset Council for consent to convert disused farm buildings into seven holiday homes, a museum, games room and swimming pool.

The traditional flint buildings, mainly around a central courtyard, are part of a 130 hectare farm holding which includes a Grade I listed manor house and a deserted village site. The site is within the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

An agent's report to the council says that the benefits of the application will not only be economic but will also protect and preserve the historic farm buildings: "Due to the age, form and construction of the historic barns it is considered that there is merit in finding an alternative acceptable use for these buildings. They are of value and interest in their own right and form part of the traditional setting and character of the historic farmstead."

Full details of the application can be seen on the Dorset Council website – reference no 2021/04887, with public comments open until January 20.