A FORMER pub could be turned into a shop under new plans that have been submitted to Bolton Council.

The Queen Victoria in Chorley New Road, Horwich, closed more than a year ago due to a lack of trade and developers now want to convert it into a Nisa Local store.

On behalf of Nisa, Rahat Anwar has asked Bolton Council for permission to change the use of the property from a public house to a convenience store. A report to the council says: “The building is a large traditional Victorian property of some architectural interest, with an attractive frontage.

“It is sought to retain these features.

“Refurbishment and refitting work will provide employment for local tradespeople and, when the centre is open, it will provide full-time employment for members of the community as well as the provision of local groceries within walking distance of local homes.”

The site would be served by three on-street parking spaces and would employ four full-time and four part-time staff.

It would be open from 7.30am to 10pm daily and a cash machine would be placed outside, with a toilet block being demolished. As part of a consultation period which ends on March 27, one person has formally objected.

In a letter to the council, the unnamed objector said: “Why oh why do we need a store here?

“There is a very good one next door, a newsagent’s across the road and a 24-hour garage 100 yards away.”

The council is aiming to reach a decision by April 29.

Formed in 1977, Nisa operates 4,000 shops, including Costcutter stores and 950 which carry the Nisa brand.