PERMISSION is being sought to turn a former Indian restaurant in Burgate into a home.

The application seeking a change of use of the Surma Valley restaurant and outbuildings on Salisbury Road to a single dwelling was discussed by Fordingbridge Town Council's planning committee on March 9.

A design and access statement submitted for the application states there are no alterations to the site and setting of the building.

A further letter with the planning documents say that: "No building works are proposed as part of this application."

Cllr Anna Wilson, speaking of the loss of a restaurant in that area, said: "Personally it is a great shame with all those new houses."

There was one objection to the plans on New Forest District Council's website.

One resident, who runs self catering cottages in the area, said it was "a great shame that it looks like we are losing another 'eating/drinking establishment at Burgate" especially with more homes planned for the area. when it was trading it was "well supported locally".

Adding: "With the amount of new housing that is planned for the Burgate area, I would have thought that a restaurant/eating type of business would do well in this location. I therefore feel it is necessary to object to the change of use to a private dwelling."

Fordingbridge Town Council's planning committee agreed that it would be happy to accept the decision made by New Forest District Council as the planning authority but was "disappointed" to lose a business.

The district council will make a final decision on whether permission is granted for the change of use.

For more information visit New Forest District Council's website and use the application reference 22/10110.

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