A CHAIN of Italian restaurants is planning to open a new venue.

Uno Momento, which already has restaurants in Darlington, Stokesley, Middlesbrough and a newly opened one in Northallerton, has plans to open in Durham city.

The company has submitted plans to Durham County Council to make alterations to the building at 39 Silver Street, which is currently occupied by Lounge Bar and Grill.

It has applied to make changes to the building, including installing a new flue to the rear roof plane and to install new signs.

A report submitted to the council on behalf of Ekrem and Mustafa Babat says: “The applicants now seek to occupy the premise as an Italian restaurant known as ‘Uno Momento’. The new occupants have several successful restaurants within Middlesbrough, Stokesley and Northallerton town centres, and wish to add to their portfolio this Durham City location.”

It adds: “The development will aim to preserve the unique historical and architectural character and appearance of the Conservation Area without impeding on the external character of the building.

“This minimal alteration will be sympathetic to the character and appearance of the Conservation Area and the existing building’s design and character.”