Former betting shop could become a restaurant

Plans have been submitted to Bradford Council to change the use of the old Betfred premises at 3-5 Kirkgate, Silsden, from a bookmakers to restaurant.

The application, which also includes the installation of a roof-level ventilation flue and external lighting, is due to be decided next month.

The premises date from 1912, when they were built for the Co-operative Society.

There have been numerous occupants over the years, but the building has been empty since the betting shop closed last year.

The latest application says the applicant and incoming tenant have a long-term commitment to invest and bring the unit “back into a viable use”.

Silsden Town Council has said it has no objections in principle to the plan.

But it does raise concerns on highways issues, saying there is no obvious available parking close to the site and that pay-and-display provision is further away than indicated in a supporting statement.