THE plans to turn the former George Street Suites into a canteen and restaurant have been given formal permission by St Helens Council.

The proposals were drawn up by Sharon and Paul Bridge, from Sutton, who already have a Tex-Mex takeaway in Thatto Heath called Sabroso.

The couple had told the Star they hope the premises will be open in the spring as they look to move their business to the George Street quarter.

Their goal is to expand their existing menu and offer seating for up to 80 customers – with hopes for the upstairs to be a venue for events in the future.

Plans state there would be eight full-time and eight part-time jobs at the restaurant, which will serve meals from Spanish dishes to home-cooked favourites.

Family-run furniture shop George Street Suites closed its doors at the premises in 2017 after 32 years.