Plans to develop a current cider orchard with shepherd's huts, a taproom and a temporary mobile home have been approved - despite concerns from residents.

The application to build on a strip of land near Chalmington was previously rejected by West Dorset District Council planning committee following concerns over opening hours of the taproom/café/farmshop. However, following further negotiations with the applicant - Daniel Green - councillors agreed to approve the development.

Mr Green's original application indicated that the taproom/café/farm shop would be open on a "flexible" basis to be mainly used for customers and glampers.

He initially proposed to have it open from 11am to 7pm Monday to Wednesday, 11am to 11pm Thursday to Saturday and 11am to 4pm on Sundays.

However, this proposal was met with numerous objections from residents in the area and Frome Valley Parish Council who feared the taproom could promote anti-social behaviour.

Upon further consideration the applicant proposed opening hours of 9am to 7pm in order to be able to serve customers' needs.

Councillors agreed opening hours of 9am until 5.30pm Monday to Saturday and 9am until 4pm on Sundays.

Speaking at the planning committee meeting on Thursday, Chalmington resident Tim King said he believed the development to be "impractical and unsustainable".

Further concerns were also raised over flooding issues in the area and increased traffic the development would bring.

Katherine Patten, Mr Green's partner, said: "There are many businesses in the area that are currently doing this and who are making a profit, Langham Wines for example. This is an opportunity to bring people to West Dorset with our heritage. It will also be generating two jobs.

"I have every faith in Mr Green."

Speaking at the meeting Mr Green said the taproom/café/farm shop would be used a retail space, a place for customers to enjoy cider tastings at the end of the tour and a place to serve evening meals.

The report before councillors showed that Mr Green expects to generate an income of £73,876 in year one, £100,012 in year two and £126,815 in year three.

Cllr Robin Potter said: "I remember when we went on the site visit, none of the extensions would be interfering with any of the local residents. I see no reason to have any concerns and I propose its approval."

The agreement for the mobile home is for a limited period of three years until the agricultural need ceases on the site, whichever period shall be the shorter.

The application was approved with seven councillors for and two against.