Plans to turn a former newsagents into a café have taken a step closer to completion.

A planning application to turn the now-vacant Dave’s Corner Shop into a new eatery was submitted in September.

Applicant JB Singh wants to convert the store in Woodside Drive, Wilmington, Dartford, into a fry-up serving site which targets locals.

The former shop shut in February and has remained empty since.

It was part of the Birchwood Parade of shops, which includes a launderette, pharmacy, barber shop, and butchers.

However, it has now been confirmed planning permission is not required for the café to be given the green light.

Speaking about the proposals, planning officers said: "The proposed use is described as a café and the application has been accompanied by a proposed floor plan which shows a typical café layout with five tables, 16 seats and a counter.

"From the details provided, there is a good level of seating which takes the majority of the floorspace and whilst some element of take-away service may occur, I am content from the details provided the proposed use falls within the sale of food and drink for consumption.

"The proposed change from a retail premises to a café does not constitute a material change of use that requires planning permission."

The café would be open from 8.30am to 5.30pm between Monday to Friday.

It would also welcome customers on Saturdays from 9am until 1pm.

No trading would take place on a Sunday or bank holidays.

You can find out more about the plans here by searching for reference 23/01078/LDC on Dartford council's planning website.