Pub chain Wetherspoons is still looking for an outlet in Gillingham but has scrapped plans to take over the former Fads decorating store.

The company has announced that it plans to open 200 new pubs over the next five years, creating 15,000 jobs.

Taking over the wallpaper and paint store in Green Street, which has stood empty for several years, is no longer on the cards but spokesman Eddie Gershon confirmed that it was keen to move into Gillingham.

Meanwhile a planning application has been formally submitted to Medway Council to convert The Old Post Office in Railway Street, Chatham.

The former post office building was turned into a pub when it became too expensive to run. It closed in 2010 and has been vacant ever since.

The company. known for its low prices, long opening hours and no-music policy, has long expressed an interest in opening in Chatham.

JD Wethersoon is also known to favour conververting large premises, including banks and building societies rather than opt for new builds.

The chain’s only pub in Medway, The Golden Lion in Rochester High Street, used to be a TSB bank.

Mr Gershon said: “Wetherspoon is still keen to open a pub in Gillingham, though at present, is not looking at any sites.

"It did look at Fads, but is no longer doing so. With regard to Chatham it is awaiting a decision of the council.”