Plans have been put forward to transform a former tattoo parlour into a fried chicken shop.

The proposal would see a takeaway open at the site of the now-defunct Cavern Tattoo and Piercing Studio, in East Street, Sittingbourne.

The building has remained empty since artist Linda Jones proposed to close her studio in January 2022 to move her business to an American tug in Medway instead.

After deciding to call it a day just three months later, she said: “I had had enough after the pandemic as everything seemed different, plus I had also been there for 23 years already.”

If approved by Swale council, the eatery would occupy both the ground floor of the 34 sq m property.

The initial application adds it wants to include a customer waiting area a little over 12 sq m at the front of the building.

The remainder of the floor would be used for preparatory equipment such as a grill, fryer machine, a storage area and a fried chicken display unit.

It also plans to employ three members of staff on a full-time basis, alongside two temporary workers.

The shop would be open from 10am untl 10.30pm on weekdays, and at the same time on weekends.

To view the plans click here and search for the reference 23/502169/FULL.

Due to the nature of the application, there are no groundworks being proposed – meaning a detailed evaluation of the site is not deemed necessary regarding any heritage issues.