A DORCHESTER shop unit, close to the Co-Op, could be converted into a launderette – the first in the town centre for at least a decade.

Permission is being sought from Dorset Council for the use of one of the units at the Forum Centre, off Trinity Street, last used by a charity.

The application comes from a Weymouth woman who previously had consent for a launderette in one of the town's arcades – but says in her application that the lease for that building fell through.

In her application Sarah Randall said: "The machines will be installed by a professional company.

"Nothing is going to be changed to the exterior of the building and not a lot to the interior – excepting professional electrical and plumbing work and will not be significantly different to what the building has been used for over the years.

"On having carried out my research into a suitable area for a launderette, I was encouraged by a) local people who currently have to travel to Weymouth to access one and b) shopkeepers in the vicinity who feel it would encourage more footfall into the County Town, by definition, beyond into the town centre – which I am sure you will agree is much needed! It will also have a positive impact on the area and utilise empty buildings as there are many in the area."

The building was previously used by the Salvation Army's shop for sorting clothing gifted to the charity.

Public comments on the application, P/FUL/2024/07331, can be made to Dorset Council by March 28th.