Progress is being made on converting a historic town centre building into a restaurant.

Businessman Musa Kivrak plans to open an Italian restaurant in the former Woolwich bank at 60 Sittingbourne High Street.

The site has been empty for around eight years.

It comes almost a year after Mr Kivrak transformed the former Bull Inn pub, on the opposite side of the road, into a branch of Mexican-themed Tacos Locos.

Philip Holley Architects has put in plans to Swale council on behalf of Mr Kivrak for listed building consent for the installation of a kitchen extract duct and signage.

As part of the project, the inside of the Grade II-listed building’s first floor will be redesigned and refurbished.

In its submission to the council, Philip Holley Architects said: "Overall, it is considered that the application proposal represents an acceptable and appropriate development that, when considered against the established character and appearance of the existing site, would both protect the historic and architectural importance of the Grade II-listed building.

"It would also preserve and positively enhance the character and appearance of this part of the Sittingbourne conservation area."

The plans for the restaurant's signs show the name Amalfi, but Mr Kivrak said it was not set in stone.

"It could change, it's not 100%," he said.

"We're very excited to open," he added.

"We're looking forward to bringing another different restaurant to Sittingbourne.

"Our presence, with Tacos Locos, has already made such a difference to the town, as has the opening of Kaspa’s and Wimpy, because it's giving a massive benefit to the town.

"With the Italian as well, I think we will bring more people back into the High Street, make it more lively and save people travelling everywhere else."

Mr Kivrak said he did not have a date for the Italian’s opening, but was hoping for it to take place around March. Tacos Locos has been open since January.