PLANS to convert a former pub into two homes have been given the go-ahead.

Stoneriver Projects, owner of the White Horse Inn at Milford on Sea, has also received consent to build three homes in what was previously the pub garden.

A report to members of New Forest District Council said the scheme would secure the long-term future of the Grade II-listed building.

The report added: "The proposal includes the removal of a number of rear additions and other changes that detract significantly from the architectural and historic interest in the building.

"The removal of these extensions, and the enhanced rear elevation that would result, provides a substantive heritage benefit."

The report said the council's conservation officer felt the changes would offset the "smaller areas of harm" caused by the sub-division of the building.

It added: "The positive benefits that would be secured by bringing the building back into use, and the removal of the unsympathetic additions, are positive enhancements that would secure the long-term conservation of the building.

"Overall it is considered that the proposal would not result in harm to public highway safety and sufficient car parking would be provided to serve the development."

Built in the late 18th century, the pub has been vacant since 2018.

One of the people who wrote to the council to support the application said: "The loss of a public house that has failed to survive should not be mourned.

"There is a plethora of fine high quality drinking and eating establishments within close proximity of The Green, which is the hub of the village.

"This will prove a welcome addition to the village.

"It will not impact the 'attraction' that Milford offers in terms of amenities and will come as a welcome relief to residents who are concerned about the impact of a failing building with the potential to accommodate another nuisance on their doorstep."

Another supporter said the proposed development would improve the area's appearance.

She added: "There are plenty of pubs in the area, we do not need more and currently the building as it stands offers no benefit to Milford."