A BIG name pizza chain could be one of two new food outlets to locate on the town centre's Bridge Street.

The businesses have applied to open on the street, potentially bringing investment and jobs to an area where there are currently a number of vacant buildings.

International pizza take away and delivery chain Papa John's has applied to set up shop at number 54, which is part of the former Buzby's nightspot. This would be the town's first branch of the restaurant and would transform part of a building which has fallen into disrepair. The outlet would also create a number of jobs.

The Papa John's proposal is currently open for consultation and it will go on to the planning committee if there are any objections.

Meanwhile, St Helens Council has already given the go-ahead to plans to bring a restaurant and take away to number 35 Bridge Street, a double fronted building which was formerly the Fluid bar and previously the Nelson.

Bidders the Gauchwin Group say the restaurant business "will improve the economic, social and environmental conditions of the area".

The restaurant and takeaway will bring three full-time and two part-time jobs to the area and will be open every day between 8am and 11pm. Currently the premises is closed during the day so the new restaurant will bring day-time footfall to the area.

The proposal was approved on August 8 subject to conditions.