PLANNING bosses are set to rule on proposals to tear down a former Royal British Legion clubhouse to make way for new housing.

Members of Purbeck District Council's (PDC) planning board, meeting for the last time before the new unitary council comes into effect, will consider plans to construct seven homes at the vacant building at Wimborne Road, Lytchett Matravers.

Although the club has stood empty for a number of years, some village residents believe it should continue to be used for the local community.

Indeed, when the club closed back in 2016 it was listed as an Asset of Community Value by Lytchett Matravers Parish Council.

This meant the site had to be made available for any local community group for a limited period. However, this period came to an end in April 2017, with no financial bid or interest being made.

PDC planning case officer Andrew Collins, in his report to the committee recommending members grant outline permission for the new homes, said: "The building was a private members club, had been vacant for several years and is located on the periphery of the settlement.

"Alternative uses have been fully investigated and ruled out for a number of reasons Officers do not disagree with this assessment and consider that the redevelopment of the site is therefore acceptable."

The council received three official objections from neighbours about the proposals. One of these objections referred to possible infringement on the green belt, but these latest plans do not include any development of this protected land.

Mr Collins explained: "The whole site is considered to be brownfield land."

Other neighbours cited concerns about loss of privacy, increased noise and disturbance, inadequate parking and impact upon the character of the area.

PDC's planning committee will consider the application, which has been lodge by Bracken Developments Limited, at its meeting scheduled for March 27 at Westport House, Worgret Road, Wareham.