South Walks House in Dorchester should be used for shops and housing after local government reorganisation next year – according to one resident.

The building, off the Charles Street car park, is the headquarters of West Dorset District Council.

Tony Byrne, from Earl Close, used the public section of the annual town meeting to make the call.

He said the move would solve many of the town’s problems in one move.

“I propose West Dorset District Council moves its offices into County Hall and the Tourist Information Centre is returned to prominent offices in the town. The Library and Learning Centre would remain in South Walks House. The former Crown Court premises should be brought into use as council offices.”

Mr Byrne said he believed the council offices could accommodate two retail stores with the top floor if the building converted to flats.

“This would concentrate council staff to suit the unitary authority, restore the TIC to its contribution to the town economy, maintain Fairfield car park revenue by eliminating plans for retail development there, and secure the Charter Market in its present site (Fairfield).

Town Mayor, Cllr Susie Hosford, thanked him for his idea but said the decision on all of the matters rested with the district council.