By James Johnson

Last updated at 14:31, Friday, 23 November 2012

A brewer is creating a new pub and restaurant in a former bank building.

Stuart Richardson outside the former bank

Stuart Richardson, of Silloth-based Derwent Brewery, says he is excited about the prospect of opening the new business in Aspatria.

He estimates that work is three-quarters complete on the restaurant and coffee bar, which will bew called The Vaults.

But an opening date has yet to be confirmed.

Mr Richardson said: “We’ll be making dinner-time meals and serving real ales as well.

“We’ve got to get it past building inspectors but I’d like it to be open as soon as possible.”

Planning permission has been approved by Allerdale Council for the restaurant, which will open in the former HSBC bank on King Street.

It will have two dining rooms for customers.

Some residents have voiced concerns about the plans with some suggesting that another alcohol licensed premises would have an effect on the sustainability of businesses within the town.

The former Fox & Hounds pub was recently converted into residential properties after sitting empty for a number of years. But Mr Richardson said: “I don’t think the competition will be a problem.

“It’ll be more of a restaurant than a pub. I think it will be handy for people because it’s right beside the Co-op.”

The pub-restaurant, which was bought at auction after the bank closed, will be allowed to open between 8.30am and 11pm on Mondays to Fridays, from 8.30am until 11.30pm on weekends and bank holidays.

Conditions have been put in place to ensure that noise from the establishment does not exceed a reasonable level and customers do not sit outside after 9pm.

First published at 14:26, Friday, 23 November 2012
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk