A "SHABBY" building in Shipley town centre can be converted into a bar after new plans were approved.

James Greenwood had applied to turn the building, which used to be The Connection restaurant in Westgate, into a bar.

The application, which has now been approved by planning officers, says the new business would create about four jobs.

Mr Greenwood has also submitted a licensing application for the bar to serve drinks from noon until 1am.

The planning officers' report said: "Westgate is on the periphery of Shipley town centre and has seen a decline in fortunes in recent years as a number of restaurants, such as the site, have closed or have relocated.

"There remains a generally vibrant mix of retail and non-retail uses along the street and in other streets in the locality, but a number of vacant units are evident.

"Due to the length of vacancy, the property has a shabby appearance at the moment.

Facilitating the change of use would also encourage bringing the empty property into productive use, thereby enhancing its visual appearance and the vitality of the street."