AN empty Ellesmere Port town centre shop unit – formerly a bookmakers – could soon be brought back into use.

There has been interest expressed in turning the vacant property on Whitby Road, most recently occupied by William Hill, into a tattoo studio.

The owners of the building, Amber Taverns, have planning approval in place for the unit to be used as a tattoo studio, or alternatively for retail or as a restaurant/cafe.

The premises is being marketed for let on their behalf by Chester-based BA Commercial and is currently listed as being 'under offer' according to their website.

Amber Taverns, who also own the adjoining William Jessop public house, put forward two separate planning applications to change the use of the vacant premises back in September.

One of the applications was to turn it into a tattoo studio, while the other was for retail or restaurant/cafe use.

The applicant stated that lodging both proposals was aimed at widening the possible marketing of the unit.

Cheshire West and Chester Council has now given the green light to both applications.

In relation to the change of use application for a tattoo studio, council case officer Edward Shepherd states in his report recommending approval: "Some marketing has been provided , and it was demonstrated that there was interest as a tattoo studio which is why this application was submitted."