THERE are plans to open a restaurant and takeaway in the old Dunfermline Building Society in the centre of Cowdenbeath.

Sava Estates Ltd, based in Glasgow, want to turn the empty offices at 323 High Street into an eaterie with up to 100 covers.

In a statement, their agents said: "Despite occupying a prominent location on the High Street, the property has been vacant for almost two years and, unless occupied, has the potential to become a significant disamenity to the area and to impact on surrounding properties.

"The proposal will see this vacant property transformed into a quality restaurant making a major contribution to the range of eating establishments in the town and to the economic wellbeing of this part of the High Street."

Sava have applied to Fife Council for a change of use from office to restaurant and hot food takeaway.

The plans include a serving counter at the front for a hot food takeaway with a small area of seating for customers and the restaurant in the centre of the building.

The proposed opening hours would be between 9am and 11pm and the firm say a yard at the back of the premises could provide dedicated car parking.

The building is on the west side of High Street and near to Greggs, Iceland, Boots and Poundstretcher.

Despite protests and criticism from then MSP Helen Eadie, Nationwide, which took over the Dunfermline Building Society, decided to axe the branch in October 2013 and it closed the following summer.