AN AMERICAN fast food restaurant could replace a bar which closed down after problems with antisocial behaviour.
A local restaurant owner has applied to replace the premises, formerly known as Le Club in Long Eaton, with an eatery and apartments.
Le Club in Station Road closed in 2010 after its licence to sell alcohol was revoked by Erewash Borough Council.
It had been previously known both as The Venue and Hype.
Allegations of antisocial behaviour, criminal activity and assault led to a review by Derbyshire Police and Erewash Borough Council.
Martin Hill, bought the property 18 months ago, and also owns The Station restaurant next door.
Mr Hill said: "The restaurant we have trades well and it's not great to have a place closed down next door."
According to Mr Hill he had made other applications to convert the building into seven flats, then into four flats with a commercial premises.
If the new application is approved, the restaurant would have a "minimal style" with a bar area at the front and a restaurant at the back serving American fast food.
It would also provide two apartments, one above the restaurant and one to the rear of the site.
Mr Hill added that he believed it would be better for the street's future to fill the premises with a restaurant than hold out for a shop.
"I think a lot of retail stuff is non-recoverable with everything being online - I think people are wanting to visit pubs, clubs and restaurants which will bring people into town. They then might return to buy something afterwards," he said.
"The high street has started to reverse itself."
Paul Gaughan of Gaughan Design, who is helping oversee the development, added: "The Station has been quite successful and there's room for expanding it.
"It's going to help regeneration."
Shirley Thompson of The Corner Pin pub in Long Eaton High Street said it could help improve the town's image.
She said: "Being only one of two Long Eaton bars that serves food at the moment, I would say it's the way forward.
"I do believe if there were more decent places with good managers who knew what they were doing, the town would spring to life."
The application is now in the hands of Erewash Borough Council and is due to be decided on by October 14.
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