A KIRKBY Stephen man plans to open a micro pub "to bring more people into the town".

Steven Howarth, of South Road, is seeking planning consent to convert an empty sandwich takeaway shop at Croft Street, a Grade II-listed property.

Drinks from small breweries and distilleries would be served with a menu of locally sourced food.

Mr Howarth has told Eden District Council in his planning statement: "We want to work with the existing business in town such as the bed-and-breakfast behind the premises to encourage people to visit town and stay here, and help make Kirkby Stephen a destination."

The decor is to focus on "upcycled materials", with black-and-white painted windows and doors, and a gold-painted sign. A rotten, buckled sash window will be replaced, and an upstairs one-bed flat will be used for storage, a staff room and food prep.

"We do not want excess rowdiness," Mr Howarth has stated in planning documents, "and will do everything we can [to keep] noise at an acceptable level.

"We intend to open weekends initially, then offer exclusive use during the week for private parties,

"We also would like to go onto offering exclusive afternoon teas."

The opening hours requested are Monday-Friday 10am-11pm; Saturday 11am-11pm; and Sunday 12pm-11pm.