A former Halifax bank branch in Windsor could soon host a popular Asian sushi restaurant under plans submitted to the council.

The Peascod Street branch, which closed in December 2022, has been put forward as a potential site for a branch of Itsu.

Falling squarely within Windsor town centre, the old bank branch was within walking distance of Windsor and Eton Central train station.

The planning application seeks permission to change the use of the building to allow for the restaurant to be installed.

The design and access statement reads: “The proposed change of use of the ground and first floor at 26 Peascod Street is considered to be in-keeping with the character and function of the surrounding Windsor Town Centre.

“The proposed development is deemed appropriate in its adherence to local policy, supporting the commercial offer within an existing Primary Shopping Area.

“The proposed change to open Class E will provide a fitting use in high demand close to a key transport node in a suitable location. The proposal will not impact the historic character of the surrounding area and will encourage economic benefit to a currently under used space.”

It comes amid a wider debate around the closure of bank branches – with more people moving towards online and mobile services rather than going to a physical bank.

Multiple banking companies have seen branches close in Berkshire over the past year.

Itsu, which is a chain of Asian-inspired restaurants, already has dozens of branches in the UK – mainly in London.

The design and access statement adds: “The Itsu model is to sell food and drinks which are prepared off site and no cooking on site is necessary.

“Such food that is served warm is simply reheated as required on site. The store therefore requires very little cooking equipment and there is no need for extractor ventilation that can be potentially harmful to the surrounding amenities.”

Do you have any thoughts on bank branch closures in your area, or new more restaurants coming to town? Please contact out local democracy reporter James Moules at james.moules@newsquest.co.uk to share your thoughts.