A TOWN hall which has stood empty for nearly five years could be transformed into an upmarket bar and restaurant.

The company Stew and Oyster Ltd has applied for a licence for Malton town hall, in the centre of Market Place.

Previously occupied by Malton Museum, the Grade II-listed building underwent a major restoration by the Fitzwilliam Malton Estate however it has since remained empty.

Tom Mountain,director of Stew and Oyster, said it was early days but they had submitted an application for a licence for the premises.