A "WELL known and respected national retailer" could soon be opening a branch in a long empty unit in Bingley town centre.

Unit 7 at the 5 Rise Shopping Centre has been vacant for years, and is currently covered by unsightly black hoarding.

A planning application submitted to Bradford Council this month hints that its days of standing empty could soon be over.

Plans to alter the frontage of the unit in preparation for a new tenant have been submitted by Sheet Anchor Investments Limited.

The application does not disclose which business would be moving into the unit, but it says: "During the marketing of the development, several well known and respected national retailers have expressed an interest in the available units and a commitment to the town.

Bingley's 5 Rise Shopping Centre is sold for an 'undisclosed sum'

"One potential tenant in particular has expressed interest in taking Unit 7 which has been vacant for some time."

The applicants describe the unit as currently "creating a negative impression" of the shopping centre.

The new shop frontage will feature "suitable ironmongery" and the application says the changes would "contribute positively to making a better place for the local community."

A decision on the application is expected late next month.