Costa Coffee has confirmed it is looking to open a branch in Sandgate.

It follows claims on social media that the coffee chain will be moving into the former Bar Vasa premises.

Costa has so far confirmed that one of its partners is “looking at options for the premises in question.”

Bar Vasa, once a popular night-spot on the Sandgate Esplanade, was sold at a Clive Emson auction for £245,000 in May.

Auctioneer Kevin Gilbert said after the sale: “It could be re-opened but there might be the opportunity to change its use or develop.

“However all necessary consents must be obtainable.”

The bar and restaurant, which was rebranded as The Deck @ Bar Vasa, has been left derelict for nearly three months.

Head of communications at Costa Kerry Parkin said: “As the UK’s favourite coffee shop brand and one of the success stories on the UK high street, we work closely with planning departments across the country to open new stores for the benefit of their local communities, creating new jobs and providing attractive and popular social meeting places.

“One of our franchise partners is currently evaluating opportunities in the Sandgate area but have no confirmed plans in place at this stage.”

If plans come to fruition and Costa puts in an application to set up shop in Sandgate, it will be the only national brand to sit among a string of independent businesses.

Loaf is the nearest cafe, just a few metres away in the High Street.

It sits in a cluster with other independents, including a furniture shop, a newsagent and Mexican restaurant Escondidos.