THE founder of a Glasgow-based deli and restaurant chain says he's delighted that planning permission has been granted for the firm's new venture in Helensburgh.

Tony Johnston spoke to the Advertiser after Argyll and Bute Council officials gave the green light to the company's proposed conversion of the former council buildings on the corner of Sinclair Street and East Princes Street.

The company intends to alter the interior layout of the building and to install outdoor seating along the Sinclair Street side.

The plans also include the formation of function suites within the building, and of six flats on the upper floors, along with a new pedestrian access route between the adjacent Helensburgh Central railway station and Sinclair Street.

Mr Johnston told the Advertiser: “I'm delighted to hear planning has been granted.

“Moreover I have been very impressed with the approach and efficiency of the planning and building control department to date, who have been very supportive and helpful in the process.

“We are looking forward to being part of the town and community which has seen a lot of very positive and exciting developments in recent years.”

A spokesperson for the Helensburgh and Lomond Chamber of Commerce told the Advertiser: "The Helensburgh and Lomond Chamber of Commerce is always delighted to see new businesses open in the town and Peckhams is a well known brand throughout Scotland with a reputation for high quality products.

"The former Municipal Buildings is a magnificent focal point in the town centre and it is good to now that it is going to be brought back to a useful life and provide the town with an additional offering for locals and visitors alike."

Peckhams' planning application for the building received a positive reaction when it went public in September.

The approved plans differ slightly from those published in September: there will no longer be an outdoor seating area at the rear of the property, while the outdoor seating area will no longer extend round the corner into East Princes Street and will also be narrower than originally proposed, to allow for a two-metre width of pavement down Sinclair Street.

Helensburgh councillor Aileen Morton, whose Argyll and Bute Council policy lead portfolio includes economic development and strategic tourism, said: I’m really pleased to see this application be approved so speedily, with no objections being received.

“As a listed building right beside Helensburgh Central station it forms an important part of the fabric of the town centre and when this work is complete it should ensure a long-term future for the building that also adds to the vibrancy of the town.

“Hopefully Peckhams will be able to retain as many of the significant internal features as possible – to reflect the building’s history, and to add to the character of their development.”

The original application attracted only one objection, from solicitors acting for the owners of Gordon's Chemist in Sinclair Street, who voiced concern over the potential impact of noise and smell on unwell customers at the pharmacy.