FARM buildings at Higher Burton, just north of Dorcheste, could be converted into five homes.

An application for the change of use of the buildings, off the Higher Burton Farm access road, has been lodged with Dorset Council.

An agent acting for the owners, AJ and RG Barber Ltd, is asking the council to allow the scheme under the prior approval arrangements for agricultural buildings without the need for full planning permission.

Application papers say a number of new windows and doors will be needed but, where possible, the existing openings will be used and the barns will not be extended or enlarged.

The proposal is for three larger homes not exceeding 465 square metres and two smaller units of no more than 100 square metres.

Consultations on the proposal remains open until January 13.