FULL plans for a new arts venue in Sherborne have been given the go-ahead.

Dorset Council was asked to approve the planning details for the town centre site just south of Paddock Garden.

It had been held up when Historic England raised an objection, claiming the design of the centre would affect the setting of Sherborne House. But changes were made to the proposal which satisfied the conservation body.

Dorset Council’s northern planning committee approved the plans at a meeting on Tuesday.

The proposals involve the partial demolition of a stone boundary wall to the west of the site, the demolition of the stone boundary wall to the north of the site and the erection of the arts venue.

A report to the committee said: “The design is considered appropriate to the function and would enhance the character and appearance of the Conservation Area and would not harm the setting of listed buildings.

“There would be adequate access through various means of transport and if travelling by car would be adequate parking provision.”

More than a hundred people had written to support the changes and 47 to object – many complaining about the proposed loss of 15 car parking spaces in the Old Market car park with others concerned about the safety of the proposed new access.

Some had questioned the projected 70,000 annual day visitors and 5,000 evening visitors warning that the centre was only likely to attract half that number and might not prove viable, leaving the town with an empty building.

The land for the project, valued at £500,000, was gifted to the Sherborne Community Arts Centre Trust by the former Dorset County Council.

Supporters claimed the former tennis court site was a good location for the centre and would bring benefit to the whole community offering a chance to see art, design and performances and providing a ‘cultural hub’ which the town lacks. It is also expected to create 13 jobs.

Planning permission was granted for an arts centre on the site in 2011 but lapsed when funding could not be raised.