PLANS have been drawn up to convert an empty unit into a bar.

Proposals have been sent to the council for the empty unit at 12-14 George Street in the town centre.

The premises was most recently Bentos noodle and salad bar which opened in 2019 but closed down the following year due to financial strain caused by the coronavirus pandemic lockdowns. 

Plans state: "George Street contains a mixture of shops, restaurants, and a pub; 'The George,' just two units away from 12-14 George Street.

"The proposed use is therefore established in this location and impact on residential amenity will not be an issue".

They add: "The proposed use of the property as a bar will bring back into use a vacant building and will contribute to the vitality and viability of this part of the town centre and would accord with the aspirations of the local plan.

"The proposal will not affect the external appearance of the building, and thus will have a neutral impact on the appearance of the conservation area".

The proposed bar would occupy both ground and first floors.

Plans add: "It is proposed that the seating areas of the bar will be located, in the traditional manner, at the front of the building, offering vitality and movement to the street scene.

"Service areas, waiting and circulation will be positioned at the rear of the building".

Two full-time and two part-time employee are proposed for the bar 

Plans are on consultation to the public until Friday, August 19. A determination deadline has been set for September 21.