NEW signs have been approved for a Dorchester town centre shop with a range of other planning applications in the area decided by Dorset Council.

Robert Dyas at 53 South Street has been given permission to install new signs. The approved plans include one externally illuminated fascia sign and one projecting sign.

Dorchester United Church, further down the street, will be generating its own electricity after receiving approval to install photovoltaic panels on the roof of its rear hall.

At 6a Flat 2 High East Street, permission has been granted for the replacement of three dormer windows. The property is a listed building, with the changes aiming to preserve its historic character while improving energy efficiency.

Suite C at Georgian House on Trinity Street has been granted prior approval to convert its first-floor office space into a one-bedroom flat.

Historic buildings continue to see upgrades: At 39-40 High West Street, permission was granted to replace timber windows and doors, along with internal and external alterations. In nearby Glyde Path Road No 8 received approval to replace both its front and rear doors, in line with its listed building status.

A proposal at 68 South Court Avenue to enlarge a porch and add an overhang across the front elevation was refused. The application had sought a non-material amendment change to a previously approved two-storey extension, but planners decided the new proposals significant enough to require a new application.