THERE is less than a week to have a say on a plan to convert a former Tidworth bank into a restaurant.

A proposal has been lodged to transform the former Lloyd’s Bank site, in Station Road, almost two years after it closed in July 2017.

The proposed restaurant will occupy the ground floor of the premises and two studio flats will be constructed on the upper floor.

The application, lodged with Wiltshire Council, states: “The building occupies a prominent location on the street which currently hosts a variety of businesses and building uses including various commercial premises including food service units, shops, motor repairs and charity shops; there are also a number of residential units occupying the upper stories of the buildings.

“Recently a new build commercial development has been constructed opposite the site including a new supermarket.

“The building is currently vacant following the closure of the Lloyd’s bank branch leaving a key building on the high street empty.

“The proposals are in our opinion a positive addition to the area in terms of additional housing stock, a new business, a positive addition to the streetscape, an economic benefit to local trades and suppliers and a high quality example of complimentary contemporary design.”

According to the developer there has been a lack of interest in the premises.

“Given the business decision taken by Lloyd’s Bank no other financial business, whether another bank or related financial company, has chosen to take on this large and old building.”

The plan adds: “It is envisaged that the restaurant will cater for around 50 customers at any one time, this figure is thought to be the number required to provide a sustainable and economically successful business.

“Any less would only serve to make trading difficult from the outset with such a restaurant unlikely to survive and thrive.”

Fifteen jobs are also expected to be created and “if the business becomes successful this number may well increase.”

The application states: “Additionally the proposed works will require local builders to be employed across a number of trades, these will in the first instance be sourced from the local area.”

If given the go-ahead, internal and external alterations will be carried out with attention paid to similar developments in the vicinity.

“The proposals will be in keeping and complimentary to the character of the area and do not seek to overdevelop the site or impact in any negative way upon any other building in the street.”

To view the plan go to wiltshire.gov.uk/planning-applications-search and search 18/12127/FUL. A public consultation is open until February 13.