Former bank could be turned into restaurant and takeaway

A former bank in Stonehaven could be turned into a restaurant and takeaway.

Plans have been submitted for a change of use for the Royal Bank of Scotland building on Market Square.

RBS blamed a shift in people’s banking habits for the decision to close the branch in October.

It is not known what type of eatery is proposed for the building but the developer says there have been “positive discussions” with different firms.

Options could include an Indian restaurant or an Italian pizzeria.

The proposals have been submitted by Bennett Developments and Consulting on behalf of owners Sava Estates.

Don Bennett, from the firm, said: “The application has been lodged and at the moment we are not in a position to say who would be going into the premises.

“The owners have had positive discussions with a few different potential end users at the site.

“It includes an Italian pizza business and Indian – however, these discussions are only the start and it might be someone completely different who moves in.

“Companies’ positions do change, so positive discussions right now may change at a later date.”

Planning documents submitted to Aberdeenshire Council state the cash machine at the site would remain for a number of years.

The outline for the proposed development envisages the main banking hall would be given over mainly to the restaurant dining area, with an open-plan kitchen to the right.