A NEW cafe and bar from a national chain could be on the way the heart of Wimborne town centre in a £1million investment.

Plans have been tabled by Loungers for Piazzo Lounge to take over the former TSB site in the Square.

Loungers has submitted separate planning and licensing applications for the premises, which is a Grade II listed building.

A statement in support of the planning application for the internal fit out of the building and an external seating area by D2 Planning Limited said: "The Lounges are all uniquely designed, with an emphasis on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for families (as well as four legged friends).

"The aim of every Lounge is to tie in with local customers, so that they can make of the Lounge what they will; whether a customer wants to come in for a coffee after dropping children to school, a working lunch, or a tipple after work, Lounges can provide an environment for all these purposes."

The statement said each Lounge creates around 30 new jobs from leadership positions to front of house staff.

It added: "Lounge's history extends back to 2002, they have only closed six sites in total, the majority of which were legacy sites that were just too small for current offer and customer demand.

"Based on current proposals, the conversion of this property will represent an investment cost of approximately £1million.

"Thus, not only do Lounges create jobs for their own business, they can assist in creating an employment draw for a much wider area, across both retail and hospitality."

The premises licence application, which describes the business as a food-led cafe and bar, is seeking permission to serve alcohol from 10am to midnight seven days a week.

There are number of Lounge venues already in operation across Dorset, including Southbourne, Winton, Westbourne and Christchurch.

The Arboro Lounge opened in Ringwood's The Furlong shopping centre in October last year.

Residents have until September 20 to comment on the planning application on Dorset Council's website.