VISITORS to a former bank in Prestonpans could be checking out a menu rather than money under plans lodged with East Lothian Council.

The Royal Bank of Scotland, at the corner of Ayres Wynd and High Street, closed its doors in August 2016.

Now, new life could be breathed into the building, which has sat empty since, with plans showing a ground floor restaurant and two flats built above.

Councillor Lachlan Bruce, who represents the Preston Seton Gosford ward, is part of the planning committee and could not discuss the specifics of the plans.

However, he added: “I welcome development that would help enhance the Prestonpans High Street, create more business space and help us build a more vibrant lively High Street for Prestonpans.

“Particularly on the old bank site that has sat empty for far too long now.”

The latest set of proposals, from Ayres Wynd Developments, aim to remodel a previously approved scheme “to improve the floor-to-ceiling height within apartments as well as forming a more unified elevation fitting of a corner site in the centre of Prestonpans”.

The two flats, one on the first floor and one on the second floor, would both feature three bedrooms, as well as a kitchen, bathroom, shower room, sitting room and terrace.

Outside the restaurant, the cash machine would also remain in place.

The design and access statement concludes: “Through this application for detailed planning permission, we aim to demonstrate that we have prepared a high-quality design, worthy of the site in this location.

“The proposal is a result of an extensive design appraisal, taking account of the different building forms within the building environment, location and historical context all the while responding to our client’s aspirations for this site.

“The principles of use of the site for restaurant and two apartments at the property are not in question, as it has already been granted permission.

“The current proposal looks to achieve a more site specific design in line with our client’s aspirations.

“We do not believe that the changes proposed will have a detrimental effect upon the surrounding properties and High Street.

“It is hoped that this proposal can be supported by the planning department as an example of the high quality modern architecture fit for the centre of Prestonpans.”

Original plans to transform the site into a restaurant with two flats above were submitted by a different applicant – Ross Brunton – in 2017.

Mr Brunton had previously spoken with the town’s community council and revealed the restaurant could serve Italian food, although this has not been confirmed by the new applicant.

The first set of plans were initially turned down by the local authority’s planning department but unanimously won an appeal at East Lothian Council’s Local Review Body.

Preston Seton Gosford Councillor Fiona O’Donnell was part of the four-person committee who determined those plans in June 2018.

She said: “This is a great opportunity; we have all these new houses being built and we do not want everyone heading to Musselburgh or Edinburgh to eat out.

“A restaurant will really give a focus to the town.”

 

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