REPAIRS are being planned by the National Trust for Thomas Hardy's former home at Max Gate, Dorchester.

Changes to the Alington Avenue home, a listed building, include external alterations to the rainwater goods on the western side of the property, along with new lead flashing and other minor roof works. The application also includes stripping slates from the southern bay window and replacing the first bay of the lead roof, all to improve weather protection for the building which was constructed between was constructed between 1883 and 1885.

Hardy and his wife moved into the house in June 1885, remaining until his death in 1928, during which time he wrote major works including Tess of the d'Urbervilles. 

The imposing house was designed by Hardy taking advantage of his early working life as an architect before becoming an author.

Other planning applications in the town include – an outline proposal for 3 Maiden Castle Road, where plans seek permission for the erection of a new home, with access and layout the key matters for consideration at this stage.

Residential changes are planned at 22 Edward Road, where the homeowner is applying to erect a single storey rear extension fitted with a roof lantern, along with a dormer window on the east elevation. The scheme would also involve the demolition of the current extension.

At 6 Holly Close, another application proposes an extension to the property and the conversion of the existing garage.

The applications are available for public viewing and comment on the Dorset Council planning portal.