A NEW restaurant could be taking shape at a former kitchen showroom in Ramsbottom which has been empty for more than a year.

Aaron Kelsall has earmarked the former Dream Doors shop, in Bolton Street, sandwiched between the Stop Inn and Eclectic Deli, for a new eaterie.

One previous bid to convert the site into a bar has previously been knocked backed by borough planners because of noise concerns for nearby residents.

Council officials have been told that the premises themselves have been empty since December 2018 and were "detracting from the local environment".

Planning agent Paul Tunstall said: "Our client has recently secured a tenancy for the use of the ground floor unit and proposes to change the use to a new restaurant and bar to serve Ramsbottom."

The authority has been informed that sound consultants have been brought on board to explain how past worries about possible disturbance can be addressed.

Proposals now lodged with the council show that there would be a bar installed for patrons to eat and drink and a commercial kitchen established at the rear.

If approved, the new restaurant would operate until 11.30pm Sundays to Thursdays and until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Mr Tunstall added: "The new business expects to trade with both the daytime visitors and the vibrant evening economy that Ramsbottom has developed in recent years."