A PLAN to turn the basement level of a historic three-storey Portland terrace into flats has been approved.

The existing basements of Grade II listed Alma Terrace at the Grove are in a poor state.

A proposal to convert them into habitable use to form 11 two-bedroom flats was welcomed by Weymouth and Portland Borough Council’s planning committee. The application includes space for cycle parking and bin stores at the front.

A planning application for proposed development was submitted last year but it was withdrawn because of unauthorised listed building works undertaken on site. The new application includes works to put this right.

Councillor Margaret Leicester said Alma Terrace, dating from 1854, was built as accommodation for officers of the nearby prison, now the YOI.

She said a similar block nearby in ownership of the Home Office got into such a state it had to be pulled down.

Coun Leicester said she was pleased someone had taken on Alma Terrace, which she described as a ‘lovely looking terrace’ but showing signs of neglect.

The application and listed building consent was unanimously agreed by the committee.