AN EMPTY shop could be transformed into a Portuguese grill restaurant under new plans.

A planning application has been submitted to Durham County Council for the old Lazenby Newsagents and General Store at 175 Newgate Street, in Bishop Auckland.

A draft menu, submitted to the authority, states it will sell a range of meat-based dishes and sides, including chips, rice and salad.

If approved, the new business hopes to open Monday to Thursday, from 11am to 2pm and 5pm to 9pm; Friday and Saturday, 11am to 2pm and 5pm to 10pm; and Sunday, from 5pm to 9pm.

Public comments can be made until Friday, March 22 and a decision is expected by the end of April.

For details search for DM/19/00633/PNC on the council website publicaccess.durham.gov.uk/online-applications