A FORMER office building in the centre of Campbeltown is set to become a coffee shop after plans were approved by council chiefs.

Ray Collins’ proposal for the site, at 2 Castlehill, received no representations expressing either support or objection from the public.

Argyll and Bute Council’s planning officers have now awarded planning permission, remarking that the plans were consistent with the Local Development Plan.

An officer said in a handling report: “It is proposed to repair, refurnish and upgrade where possible the energy efficiency of the existing sash and case timber windows to the front and side elevations.

“The application proposes to replace the existing rear elevation windows with energy efficient double glazed UPVC sash and case windows.

“However, in order to preserve and/or enhance the character and appearance of the building, its listing and the conservation area at large, it is considered that the rear windows are sympathetically replaced.

“To help facilitate the operation of the proposed coffeeshop/bistro, minor internal and external alterations are proposed to the existing listed building fabric.

“It is considered that this would not harm the special interest of the listed building, its setting nor the character and appearance of the conservation area.

“Similarly, it is not considered the relocation of the existing flue on the rear of the building would have a detrimental effect to the character and appearance of the building or its listing.

“While it is noted and there are no concerns associated with the proposed hanging advert signage on the north elevation, the applicant is advised that a separate advertisement consent may be required for this.”

The officer added: “Given the proposal would preserve the special interest of the listed building, the contribution the site makes to the wider conservation area would remain materially unaltered.”