PLANS have been unveiled to convert a former shop known for its 'no tourists' policy into a dental surgery.

Back in 2013 Christchurch bric-a-brac store owner Mark Galpin banned tourists from entering Aladdin's Cave House Clearance, at the Grade II listed Bow House in the High Street, claiming he was being inundated with coach parties who were not buying anything.

The store was also known as Christchurch Traders.

Now a local dental firm is seeking permission for change of use so as to move from its current base in nearby Castle Street.

In a statement submitted to Christchurch council planners on behalf of applicants Mr S and Mrs K Robinson of Robinson's Dental Practice Ltd, Tanner & Tilley Planning Consultants allude to the brief controversy.

"The former use of the site was for retail as bric-a-brac and ‘furniture emporium’ operating as ‘Aladdin's Cave House Clearance’ and which was rather notorious amongst Christchurch retailers as operating a ’no tourists’ policy by the previous retailer," the statement said.

If successful the application will see the surgery relocate and gain room to expand.

The firm says its current premises are on the upper floors of the Castle Street building, denying access for disabled people.

"The move would also allow the practice to expand, resulting in higher levels of employment and great patient capacity," the statement said.

"This would increase staff levels from three dentists to five, and ancillary/support staff from four to at least seven."

The application also promises repair and restoration of the historic building, "which has seen better days", and minimal alterations - chiefly a graded path in the courtyard area and changes to the side doorway to permit disabled access.

"Securing the use of the building as a dental practice is felt to help safeguard the future of this heritage asset, before the disrepair which is currently evident becomes a significant problem to overcome."

The 'no tourists' policy of the previous occupier caused a minor storm in the town after shoppers complained to the Daily Echo, and councillors warned the policy could damage Christchurch's reputation.

However the store claimed it was losing customers who avoided the store when it was full of tourists.