PLANS to turn an historic building in North Berwick into a restaurant have been submitted to East Lothian Council.

A planning application could convert the former Coach House building at 21 Westgate from offices into a restaurant if approved.

The application, for “alterations, extension and change of use” of the building has been submitted to the council by Edinburgh-based Block 9 Architects on behalf of Belltest UK Ltd Properties.

A spokesperson said: “Belltest UK plan to open a good-quality restaurant, offering both Oriental dishes together with East Coast seafoods and traditional Scottish fare, with products and staff all locally sourced where possible.

“Both Belltest UK and the architects, Block 9, are aware that the Coach House is a much-admired local property and the design seeks to retain the existing building almost entirely, with a few minor additions to ensure the best possible offer.”

The proposals are for a 36-seater restaurant, with a bar and customer toilets also included.

The historic building has been the subject of a number of planning proposals previously, all of which have either been refused or withdrawn.

In 2015, plans to demolish the building and build two-storey flats were thrown out by East Lothian Council.

A local resident, who asked not to be named, opposed those plans but was pleased with the current idea.

He said: “All [my] neighbours seem to consider the proposal would be an excellent use of this historic building.

“The last planning application went to appeal but the Scottish Government Reporter deemed the building to be of great value, enhancing the streetscape of the conservation area, to be structurally sound and capable of various future uses.

“This application seems to be in keeping with this ruling.”

The proposals will be discussed by North Berwick Community Council at its monthly public meeting in the town’s fire station from 7.30pm on Tuesday.