A former town centre pub could be transformed and fitted out with a shop and new cafe.

Planning permission is being sought to change the now-closed Roman Quay in Stembrook, Dover, into the multi-use centre, which would also include a community workshop and workspace.

If given planning permission, it would be run by Beehive Dover, a social enterprise helping disadvantaged people.

The shop would sell second-hand women’s clothes, while the café and workspace will be designed to provide opportunities for networking and training, from the creative arts to helping volunteers develop skills to get paid jobs elsewhere.

No internal or external alterations are planned for the building fabric.

The application has been made on behalf of Beehive by the homelessness charity Dover Outreach, based at the town’s Snargate Street.

It is in the name of Outreach’s chief executive and founder Noel Beamish.

The covering letter says: “The objective is to create a welcoming environment where people can interact, develop skills and be directed to other local services/relevant employment opportunities as required.

“The proposal will enable an empty commercial premises within Dover town centre to be brought back into use.

“The nature of the use will both encourage economic growth and support the vitality of the town centre.”

The Roman Quay was built on behalf of the Charrington Brewery and opened on July 31, 1957.

Its name reflects the area’s use as a port by the Romans, then called Dubris.

In 1956, when the pub was planned and its name still being considered, the borough librarian confirmed that the walls of Roman Dover passed directly through the site.

Nearby remnants of a quay or causeway were found from the era plus examples of Roman baths, tiles, pottery and glass.

The pub closed on February 24, 2020.

The Outreach letter continues: “While the disused premises was formerly operated as a public house, it’s noted that the town centre already has a wide range of establishments of this type.

“As such, the proposed change of use would not prejudice the range of community facilities available within the centre. Rather, the proposal would broaden and enhance the current community offer.

“In conclusion, it's considered that the reuse of this vacant premises would deliver notable social and economic benefits in support of the town centre and wider Dover community.”

The application, submitted to Dover District Council, is expected to be decided on by the end of June.