New life is set to be breathed into the former Ellesmere Town Hall if plans to transform it into a new restaurant and bar complex are given the green light by council bosses.
Developers want to create the scheme in the 19th century listed building in The Square, which has been out of use since 2007.
Plans have been submitted by Jonathan Hughes, of Kinnerley, near Oswestry, who hopes the scheme will create new jobs and transform the town centre.
The proposal was supported by members of Ellesmere Town Council, who met on Monday night.
Councillor Alan Clarke welcomed the idea and said it could finally see the old town hall, which was built in 1833, restored to “how it used to be”.
Councillor Geoff Elner said: “It will provide a facility we don’t have and return the building to something useful for the community.”
In a design and access statement on behalf of the applicant it says: “There is a perceived demand for food and restaurant facilities in Ellesmere.
“The former town hall has been vacant for some time and is obviously a centrepiece to The Square at Ellesmere. Bringing it back into use will enhance the centre of Ellesmere offering a social hub.
“The building has immense character, both internally and externally, which when restored will simply add even more to the surrounding area.”
Mr Hughes has also applied for listed building consent to remove internal partition walls and install new lighting on the frontage.
Shropshire Council planners are aiming to decide on the bid next month.
By James Pugh
