NEW homes could be built above a busy Wetherspoons pub in Weymouth town centre.

A developer is proposing to convert empty former offices at Federated House in St Thomas Street, which is also the site of The Swan pub.

London developer Onewey Ltd has submitted an application to Dorset Council to determine if prior approval is needed for converting the upper two floors of the three storey building from commercial use into accommodation.

A total of eight flats are proposed - none of which would have parking. An agent acting on behalf of the developer has said that the lack of parking spaces is "sustainable" due to the building only having pedestrian access, as well as it being located within the town centre where there is public transport.

There is also no dedicated bin storage on site, although the developer suggests Dorset Council may wish to provide such a facility. "It is our intention that the residents of each property are responsible for taking out their waste and recycling on council collection days," a spokesman for architects' firm BONS, acting on behalf of the developer, has stated.

Dorset Echo: Eight flats are proposed on the two floors above The Swan - but the pub would remain unaffected Picture: Google MapsEight flats are proposed on the two floors above The Swan - but the pub would remain unaffected Picture: Google Maps

Provisions have been made for the flats to have access to escape routes, and all habitable rooms would have access to natural daylight, the developer has said.

Measures are also proposed to reduce noise from the pub below, including a batten and cradle floating floor system. In addition, outside noise could be reduced by replacing the the existing windows with double glazing, plans show. No other exterior changes to the 20th century building have been proposed.

According to the documents, the last known lease for the offices was in 2005, with the premises having been vacant for at least three months before the plans were submitted.

"We would like to take this opportunity to apply for a change the use of the upper two stories from office to residential dwellings," the developer's agent commented - pointing out that other buildings nearby feature also accommodation above commercial space.

If the change of use application is approved, the developer may not be required to submit a formal planning application for the flats, because certain changes from one class of use to another are covered by 'permitted development' rights. This includes changing from commercial, business or service use to residential, providing that certain conditions are met.

Public comments can be made on the application until October 4 2021 via the Planning portal on Dorset Council's website. The reference number is P/PAOD/2021/03082.