CHRISTCHURCH will be getting a new micropub.

Christchurch council have approved plans for the Saxon Bear Ale House, a sister establishment to the Wight Bear Ale House in Southbourne.

A micropub is 'a small freehouse which listens to its customers, mainly serves cask ales, promotes conversation, shuns all forms of electronic entertainment and dabbles in traditional pub snacks'.

The premises - the former Belvoir Residential Lettings office off the Fountain roundabout - are currently empty.

Applicants David and Nicola Holland said the focus would be on real ale, locally produced drinks and cold snack-style food.

And there will be no television, no gaming machines or hot food with the applicants also not requesting a late licence.

The popularity of micro-pubs has risen over the past few years with Bournemouth boasting a number of establishments including the Firkin Shed.

The Saxon Bear will be aimed at the mature, responsible drinker and anyone who may wish to try something a bit different to the typical pub, say the owners.

Their proposal is based on the original ethos of Martyn Hillier and the first micropub founded at Herne Bay in Kent.

The couple say they plan to join Christchurch pub watch and don't plan to hold 'happy hour' promotions, but will work with local police to promote safe, sensible and social drinking.

CCTV cameras will be installed for security, with sale of alcohol sticking to regular hours and not beyond 11pm.

In approving the request, planning officers at Christchurch council said the change of use will make "a positive contribution to the urban environment, adding to the vitality and viability of the locality."

The permitted operating hours will be 9am until 11pm Monday to Saturday and 10am until 11pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays.

The application comes as Ye Olde George Inn in Christchurch town centre remains closed after shutting suddenly, earlier this month.