Plans have been lodged to turn an Aberdeenshire chipper which was destroyed in a fire six years ago into flats.
The Bervie Chipper in Stonehaven erupted into flames in June 2009 whilst customers were still inside, and the damage was so severe many feared it would be demolished.
But the building has survived in its derelict state for six years – and yesterday developers West Coast Estates (WCE) announced a bid to turn it into flats.
On the night of the fire, staff managed to get everyone outside as thick smoke filled the building and the flames spread to the restaurant roof.
At the height of the blaze, 20 firefighters battled the flames.
No one was seriously hurt although four members of staff were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.
WCE will now lodge a planning application to turn the chipper on Stonehaven’s David Street into seven flats across four floors within the next week.
There would be two flats on each of the first three floors, and another two bedroom home on the fourth.
There would also be a shared garden at the back and a car park out the front.
Iftikar Mian, director of West Coast Estates, said: “As all residents will be aware, the site has lain vacant for over six years which isn’t ideal for such a prominent site within the town.
“What we are proposing represents an excellent opportunity to transform this derelict site, whilst delivering new homes in the heart of the town.
“We will also take great care and attention to ensure that the design of the building is sympathetic and in keeping with not only the conservation area which sits adjacent to the site, but importantly gives due regard to its prominent setting.”
Vice-chairman of the Stonehaven and District Community Council, Phil Mills-Bishop, said he welcomed the move.
“Any planning development that enhances the visuality of the town rather than a boarded-up premises, as the Bervie Chipper is at the moment, would be welcomed subject to looking at the actual planning application,” he said.
“We would like to see exactly what it is they are proposing in terms of how it will look.
“I think we have a lot of chippers in Stonehaven. But it is always sad to see a household name go.”