PWLLHELI’S former Ethel Austin store is set to be transformed into a café following a recommendation by council planning officers.

On Monday, Gwynedd’s Planning Committee approved plans that will see the empty unit on Stryd Moch (Gaol Street), turned into a Welsh-themed café that will exhibit local crafts and produce and Welsh music.

According to the report presented by officers, the shop has been empty since 2010 with only one letter of objection being received on the grounds that there are already many food businesses opening in the town, questioning the need for any more.

Planning permission was granted to turn the building into shops in 2014, but while the smaller right hand portion now hosts a William Hill bookmakers, the larger left hand side has remained unoccupied.

The report put before planners, said: “Given that the shop has been empty for a lengthy period, it is considered that there are justified grounds to change the use in order to bring the shop back into some use, and remove a dead frontage in such a prominent and central location in the town.

“It could be argued that any use is preferable than no use, by helping to attract and maintain the vitality of the town.

“It is noted that one objection was received on the application, from a restaurant owner who was concerned about having another café/restaurant in the town, alleging that there is a sufficient number already, and that it would make things more difficult for existing businesses.

While these observations are appreciated, competition between businesses is not a planning consideration. It is also not considered that there is an over-provision of food establishments in the close vicinity of the application site.”

Members of the planning committee approved the plans subject to conditions.