THE paint is barely dry on the window frames of a run-down Petersfield shop that could become a cafe and wine bar.

But many people are asking whether it's the right development for 4 College Street and if the town really needs another coffee shop.

For applicant Holly McGhie, the answer is definitely 'yes'.

The former Undies owner also has the backing of some adjacent shops, who believe the conversion will bring more trade to their end of the High Street.

Several people have tried and failed to breathe new life into the former haberdashery and estate agency opposite The Red Lion pub.

The future looked bright when a local woman applied to convert the shop into a sandwich bar, only to withdraw her plans early this year.

Many people believe Petersfield doesn't need another coffee shop as there are more than 30 places to grab a cuppa within walking distance.

But the prospect of removing one of the town's eyesores is a pleasing one for architectural watchdog The Petersfield Society.

For full story, see this week's Petersfield Herald.