CIVIC leaders today hit out at plans to knock down a historic Dorchester pub to build flats and shops.

They claim the scheme to demolish the White Hart would destroy a Dorchester landmark, affect a conservation area and harm tourism.

The broadside comes before members of Dorchester Town Council's planning and environment committee consider the plans for 16 flats and two shops on September 1.

The hotel, which is in High East Street, featured in Thomas Hardy's Far From the Madding Crowd and three short stories. Margaret Rehahn, chairman of Dorchester Civic Society, said: "The hotel is a historic gateway to the town and a terrific landmark by the river.

"It would be a great loss if this scheme were to go ahead and we have deep concerns about what would go there."

She added: "There could be quite a decent pub and restaurant if the brewery were prepared to develop it."

The hotel, which is a former flagship pub for brewers Hall and Woodhouse in Dorchester, is set back from the road with parking space in front. It stands by the bridge over the Mill Stream and was a popular gathering point for carriers' carts before being rebuilt in the 19th century.

The character Troy drank and smoked there in Hardy's Far From the Madding Crowd novel and Gertrude stayed there in The Withered Arm short story. Hardy also included the hotel in short stories called A Changed Man and A Few Trusted Characters.

Angela Bell, spokeswoman for the Dorchester-based Thomas Hardy Society, said: "The inns and hotels mentioned in Hardy's novels and poems are fast disappearing. "It would be a shame if we lost more."

She added: "People come to Dorchester to view the places that Hardy mentions.

"Hardy is becoming more popular and Dorchester is in danger of losing many of its tourist attractions."

Blandford-based brewers Hall and Woodhouse lodged the plans with West Dorset District Council.

The plans come as interest in Hardy surges with booming visitor numbers at the writer's Max Gate cottage near Dorchester and at the Dorset County Museum.

David Evans, spokesman for Dorchester's chamber of commerce, said that tourism may be at risk for visitors who are drawn by the town's Hardy connection.

He added: "It is very sad, given the Thomas Hardy connection, that the hotel cannot be kept in some way." The plans come amid fears that Dorchester may lose its distinct character with the closure of historic businesses and restaurants in the town centre.

The manager of the White Hart refused to comment and no one was available for comment at Hall and Woodhouse.