PLANS to replace a "vacant and unsightly" former bookies shop in Cowdenbeath with a "quality restaurant" are moving forward.

Rhiannon Properties was given planning approval by Fife Council in July last year to change the use of 241-243 High Street.

It had been a licensed bookmakers, operated by Coral, but it closed and the building has been empty for some time.

The council gave consent but added conditions that called for measures to reduce cooking odours and noise emissions.

The applicant said those measures are now in place and work to convert the restaurant is now underway.

When the plans were first submitted, a planning agent for Rhiannon explained: "The proposed change of use of this property from a vacant and unsightly unit will make a positive contribution to the street at this location.

"The new restaurant will animate the street and in the evening and in the dark winter evenings, the splay of light will illuminate the footpath and create a more secure and safer environment.

"It will add to the vitality of the area, will be an investment in the area and will create employment for local people."

They added that it would be transformed into a "quality restaurant" and stated: "Access will continue to be via the existing main door direct from the street and will go up into the main restaurant.

"On the right hand side is the main bar / servery which will allow customers waiting to be seated to enjoy a drink and also serve as a small waiting area for anyone wishing to take hot food away."