A SWANAGE town centre site partially used as a backpackers hostel is to be converted back into a home.

Dorset Council has agreed the change of use for the listed property at 45 High Street for the owner who lives in rooms at the front of the building.

The building currently incorporates a two room hostel with associated facilities for up to ten people,  to the rear of the building. It is believed the rear section was originally constructed as servants’ accommodation and has been known as The Auberge since gaining planning consent for hostel use in 2009.

The planning application say there will be no external changes made as part of reverting back to private accommodation and neighbours are likely to see a less intense use of the site.

Swanage Town Council raised no objection to the loss of the hostel.