A SOUTHAMPTON pub that closed after a mass brawl and criticism from police is set for new use as a shop.

Plans to convert the Dorchester Arms, which closed a year ago, into a shop and flats have been given the green light by planners.

The venue was shut down after police launched a review following a mass brawl which saw bar stools brandished as weapons.

The fight, sparked by a row over who was buying a drink, saw as many as 20 people involved and four taxi drivers eventually

admitted affray. Hampshire Constabulary was highly critical of the pub’s landlord, Ray Bird, saying he did not break up the fight although bar staff did eventually call police as the violence escalated.

Licensing chiefs at the city council held a hearing and heard about complaints from residents about music and door staff not having the correct licences.

The committee voted to revoke its licence and ban the landlord from running the premises in Onslow Road.

The pub eventually closed its doors for the last time last August and Enterprise Inns then sold its freehold having failed to find someone to take on the pub.

The building’s new owner, Mr P Harding, submitted an application to convert the ground floor into a shop. His plans, which would see an extension added and a number of alterations carried out, would also see its first and second floors turned into flats. They have now been approved by council planners, who have attached a list of conditions including one stipulating that deliveries must not occur during peak hours.

The Daily Echo was unable to contact Mr Harding about his plans.

The planners’ decision means the Dorchester Arms will become the latest in a long list of pubs which have recently closed and been turned into convenience stores.

Over the last few years The Bulls Eye in Sholing, The Woodman in Lordswood, The Anchor and Hope in Freemantle and The Castle in Midanbury have all closed and been turned into shops.