CATERING giants JD Wetherspoons have lodged an application with North Ayrshire Council to build a new bar/restaurant at Escape Amusements Arcade as part of a radical rehaul of the Largs seafront enterprise.

Rumours have persisted in recent years that the national chain had been eyeing up a local site, with the Escape building in Gallowgate Street, long being rumoured as the likely candidate.

Proposals to renovate and refurbish the building will then lead to the generation of ‘much needed jobs in to the area’ states the design brief for the development, as the extensive opening hours applied for set out 7am starts, and closures at either 12.30am or 1.30am.

Architects Harrison Inch state: “The property is not listed or in a conservation area. However, the client understands there is an obligation on the owners for the upkeep. The proposed intention of the works is to ensure the future of the building and its attractiveness. In its current state the building is deteriorating. If the proposal is granted this will help to revitalise the building bringing it into use for customers to enjoy.” Planning application As part of the planning application, JD Wetherspoons is applying for operating times of all activities ‘which are in line with their standard hours of trade throughout the country,’ opening daily from 7am, and closing at 12.30am, and a later closure of 1.30am over Thursday-Saturday.

The bowling alley is to be removed as part of the application in order to accommodate the proposed eating and drinking establishment which will be 3011 square feet.

Dining facilities will be complemented by bespoke designed sculptures to reflect the essence and character of the over all aesthetics.

JD Wetherspoons have stated that they are keen to advertise the history of the area by displaying local history artwork around the premises. Internal areas are also decorated with commissioned artwork and sculptures created by locally sourced artists.

The brief also stated that “the bar will be designed to rejuvenate the building and create a stylish focal point for customer.” The popular outdoor terrace on the seafront is also set to be enhanced under the proposals. The design statement, accompanying the planning application to NAC, stated: “It is also essential that these outdoor areas are maintained to a very high standard and look attractive throughout the year. This will ensure they are used by all customers, smokers and non-smokers alike. The drawings indicate a new boundary glazed balustrade as to the perimeter of the terrace with vertical glazed screens along with high quality furniture.” The official application is for a ‘Part change of use of amusement centre to form public house’ and was submitted this month to North Ayrshire Council for their consideration.

The original building opened in 1967 as the Manhattan Amusements, before going on to become the Cumbraen Amusements in the 1980s. At around 2000, a bowling alley was built at the new Lanes Amusements, which was owned by the Taylor brothers.

The design statement also stated: “The public house will ensure the continued use and sustainability of the existing building. Planning consent is being sought to make internal alterations.”