A FORMER bank branch is set to be turned into a restaurant and wine bar with an apartment above it.

A proposal to convert the building in Ramsbottom last used by RBS has been waved through by the planning committee.

One of the two units at the site will be used as a small bar below a two-bedroom flat, according to the plans.

The ground and first floors of the other unit will be used as a restaurant and the second floor as storage.

The building has been used as a bank since it was built in the early 20th century and was acquired by RBS in the 1930s.

De-koning Leisure Group Ltd purchased the property from RBS in September of this year.

Ramsbottom councillor Ian Schofield, who sits on the planning committee, welcomed the move.

He said: “Ramsbottom is changing from a day-time economy to a night-time economy. I’m not particularly fond of more restaurants and bars all the time but it’s better than being boarded up."

Cllr Schofield also praised the company that has taken over the historic Grant Arms and is converting it into offices saying that it looks "fantastic" now.

The former public house, restaurant and hotel located in Market Place, had been vacant for more than 12 months before plans were approved last year.

At the time, Phillip Rose, CEO of IFA Ltd, the company behind the project, said that Ramsbottom needs to make a statement that it is "open for business" mentioning the recent closures of Kay Soaps, Georgia Pacific and three banks in the town.

The planning committee voted unanimously to approve the application relating to the former RBS building.