PLANS to breathe fresh life into an historic Dorchester hotel have been welcomed.

The Kings Arms in High East Street was taken over by The Draco Pub Company last year, with the firm announcing it was to close for a major refurbishment.

The plans have now been submitted for the renovation project, with the venue set to reopen its doors early next year.

The grade two listed building is thought to be more than 280 years old, having been named in Thomas Hardy’s novel The Mayor of Casterbridge.

Draco is planning to upgrade all the accommodation as well as the bar and restaurant area to bring them up to a "modern standard" while "enhancing the most significant features of the original building where possible".

The conservatory at the back of the building will be removed to reveal the original rear elevation while the front will remain unchanged.

The planning application states: "The building has suffered greatly from layers of corporate styled fit-outs over the years that have had little regard for the historic fabric or individuality of the building and its long history.

"The addition of an ugly and oversized conservatory to provide function room space and the blocking up of the central stairwell with a box room enclosing the reception office are two examples that have greatly harmed the building."

It adds: "A substantial refurbishment of the ground floor, together with minor internal alterations, is proposed in order to accommodate a new high quality restaurant and a more attractive and accessible pub bar that will serve the local residential and business community as well as hotel guests."

After taking over the Kings Arms, Draco said it was committed to serving locally sourced food and drink with its award-winning kitchens overseen by executive chef Tom Blake, formerly head chef at River Cottage.

Managing director of Draco Rob Greacan said the company was delighted to be charged with restoring a “much loved local landmark” to its former glory.

The application states: "The building remains a key landmark in the town and its present condition represents a waste of a tremendous asset. Its rejuvenation would possibly be the key to the rejuvenation of the High East Street and assist in re-establishing it as the prime retail and commercial street in the town."

Molly Rennie was among the town councillors who viewed the plans when they were considered by the planning and environment committee.

She said: "We are very pleased and very supportive because the application is taking away only the new build and unsympathetic parts of it.

"We feel this can do nothing but enhance the offer for Dorchester.

"Tourism is one of our best assets and we need this sort of hotel."