What had been a Chinese restaurant in Old Town can now be converted into a restaurant and pub.

The plan put forward by Mr D Pujari to convert the building at 53 Devizes Road, formerly Connie's Chines Restaurant and takeaway into the new nightlife venue has been approved by Swindon Borough Council’s planning department.

Mr Pujari will be able to add a small extension to the rear of the building allowing the kitchen area to be moved further back and using the space freed up as a bar and seating area.

New toilets would also be added, and the leaded windows would be replaced by plate glass.

The upstairs floor would remain a flat as it is now.

Read More: Connie's Chinese takeaway in Swindon closing after 42 years

In approving the proposals, the council’s planning officers said: “The proposed opening hours for the unit are 10am – 12 midnight, seven days a week including bank holidays.

“These opening hours are consistent with other similar uses along Devizes Road and are not considered to be detrimental to the amenities of the nearby residential properties.

“The use of the ground floor as a mixed restaurant and public house, rather than solely as a restaurant, is not expected to generate noise and disturbance beyond the levels of the current operation. The change of use is considered to be acceptable.”

Planners also noted that the access to the first-floor flat was from the unlit alleyway at the rear of the site and urged Mr Pujari to install lighting for any residents.

Mr Pujari has not yet responded to a request for comment through his planning agent, on details of what the new pub/restaurant might offer.

Connie's closed on Saturday, June 21, after 42 years of serving up tasty Cantonese cuisine, then hand the keys to the premises back to the landlord before July 1.

 

A spokesperson said: "We are truly gutted that we could not have carried on serving but what has been a good run must come to an end.

"Again we would like to thank everyone in Swindon, new customers and old customers, for supporting us through these troubled times."

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