Plans have been unveiled to transform a disused bank into a language school for 50 foreign and domestic students.
The old Barclays building in Ringwood High Street has stood empty since June last year, when it became one of the latest banks in the New Forest to close.
UK Guardians, a Bransgore-based organisation providing education support services, has submitted plans to revamp the building.
The scheme has come under fire from Ringwood Town Council, which is urging the district council to refuse the application.
Town councillors said the proposed conversion was "inappropriate" for what they described as a prominent location in the main shopping area.
But the district council has also received a fistful of letters from Ringwood residents who support the scheme.
READ MORE: Plan to turn former HSBC bank in Lymington High Street into seven hotel rooms
Samantha Swyer, of Hightown Road, said: "This initiative offers numerous benefits to the local community.
"The conversion of the old bank into a centre for language learning will provide an educational resource for international students learning English and local residents interested in other languages.
"This will bring new life to a historical part of our town and make Ringwood a hub for cross-cultural exchange.
"The increase in footfall to the High Street is another significant advantage. With regular numbers of students arriving, local businesses will benefit from increased trade.
"Students will contribute to the local economy, not just through spending in shops but also by providing host families with additional income.
"Lastly, re-purposing this old building into an education space ensures the preservation and productive use of the property, enhancing the town's appeal while supporting our local economy.
Ally Rider, of Christchurch Road, added: "This is a great idea.
"Works to uplift and improve the building will reflect positively to the High Street and utilise one of the many empty storefronts we sadly have in town. This will also increase footfall and business for shops, cafés, and eateries."
Tracey Joy, of High Street, said: "Every small business in Ringwood would benefit from more people coming into the town."
READ MORE: Former Barclays bank in Gosport High Street could be transformed into eight flats
UK Guardians wants to convert the former bank into a language centre for international and domestic students. The proposed new facility will offer lessons in Spanish, French and Chinese, plus sign language.
One of the planning documents submitted by the applicant and its agent says the building's previous use was commercial, not retail.
It adds: "The proposal is looking to add vibrancy and footfall to the High Street through the introduction of a language school, providing education for up to 50 students at a time."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here