Plans to convert the former Bridge Stores in Falmouth’s Bar Road into a diner and takeaway have won the support of town councillors despite objections from some nearby residents.

Last year planning permission was granted for a first floor extension to contain offices, and the change of use of the ground floor to cafe and launderette.

Since then, the building has been bought by local chef Michael Prason who now wants to build a first floor extension and create a diner/ restaurant with take-away service.

Architect Peter Bowker has said in support of the application: “There is a large student population nearby together with workers employed in the dock area who would benefit from such facilities as well as local residents and tourist visitors to the area.”

Falmouth Town Council’s planning committee heard, however, that there have been letters of objection from at least two neighbouring residents who are concerned about a potential increase in noise and disturbance, parking problems and smells emanating from the kitchens.

Councillors, though, voted to support the application and recommend that Cornwall Council approved the proposal.

Steve Eva said: “This is a building that has been let go for years and years and years – it drags down that end of town. Anything that goes in there can only be a good thing for the town. It will be an asset.”

Councillor Rowenna Brock added: “I think the design is clever, it’s fun and is a nice use of a horrible area of the town.”

[Cllr Brock has since clarified her statement saying the 'horrible area' reference was not for the area as a whole, rather that it refers to the planned development site]