CHURCHGATE looks set to become the hub of a "cafe-culture" revolution in Bolton after a second pub on the street submitted plans for an outdoor seating area.

The Brass Cat, in Churchgate, wants to install seats, surrounding fabric barriers and an overhead awning on the newly-revamped street.

Neighbouring bar, The Varsity, also in Churchgate, last month asked planners' permission to put patio-style furniture outside.

The proposal was met by opposition from local trader, Marie Walsh, from Ye Olde Pastie Shoppe, who fears the move could lead to a rise in anti-social behaviour.

And she says the latest application has roused growing concern among Churchgate business-owners.

She said: "I have already written to the council with my concerns. I thought Churchgate was redeveloped so we could have events, like markets or festivals there, not outdoor drinking.

"I have spoken to other shop-owners and I think these plans will take trade away if customers are put-off by drinkers outside. It's not a good image for the street."

The seating area will accommodate continental-style outdoor drinking and eating. It will also provide a solution to the smoking ban in pubs and bars that comes into force this summer.

A spokesman for Punch Taverns, who own The Brass Cat, said: "We have submitted plans to install an outdoor area in front of the pub which will feature seating and awnings.

"The proposed development is designed to complement Bolton Council's recent pedestrianisation scheme that has placed a focus on cafe society in the town centre."

A decision is expected on the Brass Cat application by April 19. A decision on The Varsity application is expected to be taken this week.