Totton councillors are supporting proposals to turn a barn in the New Forest Heritage Area into an office and garage.

Trustees of the Barker Mill Estate have submitted a planning application to convert a listed building at Holly Cottage in Trotts Lane, Totton.

The scheme was debated at a meeting of the town council's planning and transport advisory committee.

Vice-chairman Robin Harrison said: "The proposal is to carry out internal changes to the barn, but not alter significantly the outside.

"I think this is permissible under the local plan."

The application was also supported by Councillor Steve Shepherd, who said it was important to prevent the heritage area becoming a countryside museum.

Councillor Edith Randall said she was worried about an escalation of industrial activity in the Trotts Lane area.

But the committee agreed to support the Holly Cottage application, which will be determined by New Forest District Council.