PROPOSALS to turn a former Conservative Club back into a house have been unveiled - 300 years after it was first used as a home.

Planning chiefs have received an application relating to the Grade II-listed Wistaria House at St Thomas Street in Lymington.

A design and access statement that accompanies the application says: "The property was built as a residential dwelling in the 18th century.

"It continued in residential use until the late 20th century, when it was used as a doctors' surgery, a restaurant, and more recently as a private members' club.

"We consider the proposal satisfies the requirements of [planning] policies by showing proper respect for the site's context and appearance."

A heritage statement adds: "The proposals seek to return the property to a single-family dwelling, the use for which it was historically built.

"No changes are proposed to the historic internal layout of fabric of the building.

"Historic England advises the best use for a listed building is generally that for which it was originally built."

Michael Cowan, of nearby St Thomas Park, has voiced his support for the scheme in a letter to civic chiefs.

He says: "St Thomas Street has a large number of vacant commercial properties which are becoming more dilapidated and damage the appearance of the town.

"This is a large property which will be brought back to life and be used as it once was, as a family home, if permission is granted."

The application has been submitted by Matthew Skerret, of Immat Ltd in Oxford Road, Bournemouth.

A public notice giving details of the proposed conversion has been published by New Forest District Council, which will decide the application.

Lymington Conservatives currently meet at Buckland House in Southampton Road.