Plans have been submitted to transform a disused bank into a bar and restaurant.

The former Halifax building in Sheerness High Street, which shut in 2023, has been eyed up by Marzena Quaye, who also runs Arizona Diner and Cocktail Bar.

Papers submitted to Swale council show how the ground floor would be revamped to seat 60 customers as well as accommodating a kitchen and bar. Outside would be a beer garden and, inside, a stage for live music.

The pub/restaurant would employ five full-time and four part-time members of staff.

If approved, it would be open from 11am to 1am every day except Sundays and bank holidays, when it would close at midnight.

The planning statement adds: “This application proposes a sustainable and sensitive reuse of a currently vacant building in a prime High Street location.

“By converting the property into a pub and restaurant, the proposal will contribute to the vitality of the High Street, provide new employment opportunities, and enhance the area’s social and economic activity.”

However, the proposals, which are for within a Conservation Area, have been met with some opposition.

Justine Rogers, who lives nearby, objected saying: “My quality of life will be affected by both the noise from the restaurant and pub, as well as the extraction fumes.

“There's [also] the additional garbage which will be generated by the restaurant and possibly impact the use of the Spring Passage alleyway, especially in the evening when the pub is open.”

No extensions are proposed, however, an extraction flue would be built to the rear of the site, while the first floor of the building will remain as storage and offices for staff.

Yin Lo owns several flats nearby and has consulted with his tenants about the plans.

He said he was concerned about the “unreasonable noise disturbance”.

He added: “The suggested flue is not high enough and the greasy and smelly air will end up travelling to the upper floors of the flats.

“I would also be surprised if the lower floor of each flat would not catch some of the fumes.

“This is putting aside the fact that the ventilation system is also noisy.”

Clerk Zoe O’Brien submitted feedback on behalf of Sheerness Town Council.

It said: “The council agreed to support this application and the night-time economy but cannot do so as there is no input from the Heritage Officer at Swale council.”

Meanwhile, Cllr Dolley Wooster (Lab) has asked the council’s planning team to look into whether works at the building had already begun.

The plans, which were submitted earlier this month, are currently awaiting a decision.