PLANS for a new wine bar at the site of a former charity shop in Broadstone have been approved by the council.

The owners of Wimborne’s award-winning real ale pub, The Tap House, and the adjacent Gin House, will be opening a similar venue in Broadstone.

They are seeking to turn the former Julia’s House charity shop in Lower Blandford Road into a “premium drinking establishment”.

Katy Compston, who runs the West Borough establishments with her husband, Gordon, said in a design and access statement accompanying the plans: “This establishment will be a destination bar for the more mature, discerning drinker. Like the Tap House and Gin House, we look to create a very small but niche bar.

“No food, pool tables, fruit machines, gaming machines or televisions.

“The ambience of the bar will be relaxed and mature and we expect capacity to be around 70 people. Our door policy will continue to be a strict over 25s only.”

The Society for Poole praised the plans, saying they supported “this imaginative attempt to ensure existing 'active frontages' remain active in this part of our borough.”

The new bar will look to employ six members of staff and open from 11am until midnight, Monday to Sunday.

Situated between a barber shop and an opticians, the site is also near to The Drinks Shack.

Mrs Compston described the proposed new bar as “something completely unique to Broadstone and the surrounding areas.”

She said: “The bar will have an atmospheric design, combining classic and modern styles which will enhance the space. The use of quality materials is paramount to this outlet. Engaging local tradesmen and Arch Carpentry, Lush shop outfitters, the design will be both stunning and utilitarian.

“We envisage the design and ambience will draw people to the area.”

She added there were no plans to change the positioning of the entrance to the building, which “does not have any architectural merit”.

Planning officer Sarah Scannell said the new bar would “enhance the vitality and quality of the local centre” and contribute towards a “greater diversity and choice” of drinking establishments in Broadstone, “which are currently limited”.

The site has been lying empty since the charity Julia’s House moved its shop further along Lower Blandford Road.