AGRICULTURAL land in the centre of Hazelbury Bryan is to be turned into allotments.

Officials had said the application was a welcome proposal that would meet a local need and enhance facilities in the village.

But they recommended the scheme which had been put forward by the parish council for The Keep, with access from Pidney Hill, be rejected because they were concerned about the number of vehicles that would use the access on to the highway.

Councillors at North Dorset District Council have agreed the plan should go ahead.

Eighteen allotments will be created on either side of the existing footpath crossing the site, and the plan will also include a separate parking area for five cars.

Councillors were told the proposed use reflected recent moves towards local food production and mirrored a number of similar allotment expansion projects in Stalbridge and Motcombe.