A PLAN to turn a charity shop in Musselburgh into a hot food restaurant and takeaway has been approved by East Lothian Council.

Pinkie Mains Development Ltd received consent to change the use of the premises, formerly occupied by Barnardo's at Unit 1B, Moray Way, Pinkie Braes, next to the Pinkie Farm Convenience Store.

A planning report stated that there would be no changes to the outside appearance and the takeaway would have a “modest number” of stools to allow food to be eaten on the premises. Opening hours were expected to be noon-11pm, seven days a week.

No public letters of objection were received.

The report said the change of use would bring a vacant commercial unit back into active use and expand the variety of services.