PLANS for a new restaurant in Bordon were expected to be given the go-ahead last night (Thursday) after overwhelming public support.
Members of East Hampshire District CouncilÕs (EHDC) north planning committee were expected to grant permission after the council received 33 letters of support from people citing the need for a Òdecent sit down restaurantÓ in the town.
The restaurant would be built on the existing site at the Tindle Enterprise Centre, which is currently used for light industrial use.
The applicant Abdul Hamid, who has indicated to the district council that at present there is only one occupier at the enterprise centre, has proposed to convert the southern half of the ground floor building to a restaurant with two flats above.
Members of the committee were asked to take into account the planning considerations when they make their decision which state:
r The premises were originally in retail use until 1985 when permission was granted on a temporary basis for light industrial use, which was then granted permanent permission in 1991.
r The local plan makes no distinction between industrial or commercial uses in assessing the loss of employment, at the site in Petersfield Road.
r Mr Hamid has indicated that he would employ at least five people to service the restaurant, which may increase if the business is successful.
If the application was supported by local members of the committee then permission would have been granted under delegated powers before the meeting.