The OWNER of a Grade-II listed building on Whitchurch's High Street is appealing to businesses that may want to open a wine bar or restaurant there.

Last week, it was confirmed that plans to convert 40 High Street into a coffee shop, office space and dance studio had been approved by Shropshire Council planning officers, with eight jobs set to be created.

Abraham Halpern, who is behind the redevelopment exclusively confirmed to the Whitchurch Herald that although planning permission was for a wine bar they have deliberately left options open for the future use of the premises in order to attract new business.

"We the developers have spent a lot of money trying to restore and bring life back to these three buildings," said Mr Halpern.

"We had interest for a wine bar so we put the application in for planning; however that interest is not confirmed so we hope to get more interest [from other parties] and would welcome any interest to occupy this as a wine bar or restaurant.

"The front will be restored which will greatly enhance the appearance. The upper floor will be a dance studio and some offices for local businesses.

"This has been a very challenging development but is finally coming together and hopefully once an occupier is secured for the ground floor of number 40, this will enhance the street scheme.

"We would also welcome any other ideas/interest for this unit."

Users and contributors to the Herald's Facebook page were left alarmed by the announcement that a coffee shop will be put into the former Pets 2000 building, but still commended developers for wanting to restore the arcade to its former glory.

Sheree Jones posted: "Sounds super and will be wonderful to be renovated and used. I would be doubtful of another coffee shop though but really do wish anyone setting up in business the very best of luck!"

Simon Lyon posted: "The planning application is for A4 ‘drinking establishment that can serve food’ ie a pub or wine bar.

“I would therefore doubt very much that this will be a coffee shop."

Anyone wishing to express interest can contact Halls Comercial Property Services on 01743 450 700.