A RIVERSIDE pub at Sturminster Newton is asking to install flood defence measures to protect the property.

The grade two listed Bull Inn at Common Lane goes back to the 17th century and is owned by Hall & Woodhouse. It is close to the Town Bridge which carries much of traffic in and out of Sturminster Newton from the south. The whole site lies within the town conservation area.

Works being proposed at the pub include flood defensive walls and flood gates with barrier shutters to the cellar doors as well as replacing the existing post and rail fence. A picket fence along the main entrance will be replaced, if the works are approved, with a low flood wall.

A statement with the planning application for the new flood walls said they will be designed not to not look out of place when compared to the pub building with a colour chosen to compliment the stonework. The flood doors will be fitted with vertical timber panels to hide the metal construction behind.

The proposals can be seen in full on the Dorset Council website, reference 2022/01143, with public comments open until April 1.