Fresh bid to turn old bank into restaurant in Dennistoun

A FRESH bid to turn a former Dennistoun bank into a restaurant has been launched.

Plans for a restaurant, including a takeaway, in the old TSB on Duke Street were rejected last year and then again, on appeal, in January.

There was also a proposal to turn the building into an amusement arcade but that application, which attracted a number of objections including from local politicians, was withdrawn.

A different firm, LC Holdings Ltd, has now submitted new plans to open a restaurant, without a takeaway option, as the former bank has been empty for more than two years.

“As a consequence of these refusals the property has now been vacant for over two years,” the plans state.

“During which time it has been deteriorating rapidly with a corresponding negative effect on the streetscape.

“The proposed change of use of this vacant bank into a restaurant will see a new dining experience introduced into the street. The new restaurant will complement other establishments in the area, contribute to the area’s appeal for both residents and visitors alike and further the vibrancy and vitality of the locality.”

Plans for an amusement arcade had been submitted by Merkur Slots Ltd while the first restaurant application was by Sava Estates.

Reasons for the restaurant refusal included too many food/ entertainment venues in the area and the impact of cooking fumes on neighbours. Concerns were also raised about the size of the takeaway operation.

The new application claims the restaurant would help “to animate the streetscape” and therefore contribute “to the sense of safety and security which is essential if the night time economy is to be fostered”.

It argues there will be no negative impact on the amenity of neighbours and that despite “extensive marketing” there has been no interest other than for food and drink uses.

“Unless the local authority is prepared to countenance a deteriorating and decaying property below residential property, the uses of the promises as a restaurant would appear to be a most appealing and acceptable proposition,” the application adds.

If approved the restaurant would open from 10am to 11pm from Sunday to Thursday and 10am to midnight on Friday and Saturday.