A lifeboat ploughing through a rough sea could be painted on the side of a listed building in Weymouth.

The RNLI said the giant mural would “enhance the significance” of the building in the resort’s town centre conservation area.

The Poole-based lifeboat charity has applied to paint the side of the Grade II listed Custom House.

The mural would commemorate the RNLI’s 200th anniversary and generate donations, the charity told Dorset Council.

So far comments on the council website have welcomed the idea in principle, although some said the design was “too modern” and “could be more artistic”.

Cllr Jon Orrell, from the Green Party, said the design was “photographic” and neighbouring murals were in “muted shades” or “pastel hues”.

Local resident Gill Borg wrote: “An appropriate place to publicly celebrate and remember all the selfless acts of bravery demonstrated by the volunteers of the lifeboat crews.”

The RNLI said the 18th Century waterfront building, now occupied by a café, had a “long history of being used for maritime functions”.

It added: “Accordingly, the proposal would enhance the significance of [the] listed building and the conservation area and better reveal the RNLI’s history within Weymouth.

“The mural will play a crucial part in generating interest for the charity, which will encourage people to make financial donations.”

Comments can be made on the application until June 15.