PLANS have been submitted to convert a former high street bank into a restaurant that could create jobs in a Dwyfor town.

Gwynedd Council’s planning department has received the application for the former NatWest bank on 72/74 High Street, Porthmadog, which shut last year.

According to the applicants, the development would also see the second floor transformed from offices to a three-bedroom self-contained flat.

NatWest announced the bank’s closure in December, as part of a mass cull which saw nine branches shut across north Wales.

According to the developers, bringing the vacant building back into use would provide an economic boost for Porthmadog.

The Design and Access statement which accompanies the application says: “The old bank building is one of considerable character and history.

The only planned changes to the frontal aspect of the building will be the removal of the old NatWest bank signage, and repairs to the holes in the wall left when the cash machine and night-safe were removed by the bank upon closure.

This change of use proposal enables the council to approve the development of this historic building and to retain a retail unit within the Porthmadog town centre. The design will retain its character, whilst also ensuring compliance with Building Regulations.

“This new local business will generate considerable economic benefits for local people, whilst providing a place for local families and tourists alike to visit and enjoy.”

NatWest said: “The way people choose to bank with us has changed radically over the last few years.

“Between 2010 and 2015, mobile and online transactions have increased by over 400 per cent, and mobile transactions alone have increased by 1,350 per cent.

“As a result of this change, we have seen the number of transactions in these branches decline since 2011.

“We are communicating with our customers affected by these closures and proactively contacting vulnerable and regular branch customers.”

The move to close the Porthmadog branch was slammed by MP Liz Saville Roberts, who said: “Whilst I’m dismayed at their decision to close their branch in Porthmadog, it seems to be a recurring theme, with recent closures in Blaenau Ffestiniog, Barmouth and Tywyn, albeit by another banking provider.”

It’s expected that Gwynedd Council planners will make a decision over the coming months.