GIN fans may rejoice at plans for a new bar in Darlington’s town centre.

Permission is currently being sought to convert an empty shop into Grandad’s Gin Bar and Coffee House.

Described as a “vintage rustic style bar and café”, the business would be situated on Blackwellgate, between Avalon and Uno Momento.

Darlington Borough Council is currently considering an application from a Tom Walker to convert the three storey property – most recently a barber’s shop - into the town’s newest drinking den and café.

In his application, Mr Walker says: “The proposed business to open at 7 Blackwellgate is a unique, high class vintage/rustic themed bar and café providing an exceptionally well presented shop frontage, giving Blackwellgate a nicer appearance.

“The business is to be named Grandad’s Gin Bar and Coffee House, providing a bar and café experience like no other in Darlington town centre.”

Alcohol, teas and coffees will be served throughout the day, with food also available.

In the application papers, council officer Andrew Harker says the prospective business “provides a positive impact on visual appearance and that it is a “good business idea.”

If permissions are granted, the business would operate from 8am until 11pm Monday to Thursday, from 8am until 12.30am on Fridays and Saturdays and from 8am until 9pm on Sundays.

Any comments or objections to the plans should be submitted to Darlington Borough Council before Friday, June 2 quoting reference number 17/00365/CU. For more information, visit darlington.gov.uk/planning.