A FORMER high street bank could be turned into a pub, if plans come to fruition.

A planning application has been submitted by Preston-based Amber Taverns to turn the former HSBC building into a watering hole, complete with a makeover for the outside of the building.

The building, which sits next door to Brierley Hill library, will have a full bar servery on the ground floor and an outside drinking terrace at the back of the building, if plans are approved.

The design and access statement promises the existing building will be 'respected and maintained' but will undergo a makeover to its exterior with the addition of timber window frames and illuminated topiary.

Plans for the layout of the pub in the planning documents include a principal drinking area on the ground floor with a full bar servery, and male toilets; the beer cellar to be located in the one of the former of the vaults and ladies toilets and the managers accommodation to be based on the first floor.

Councillor Zafar Islam, ward councillor for Brierley Hill, said: "It will hopefully brighten up the place and make it more attractive, it's an eyesore at the moment.

"It's a very welcome development and will liven up the night scene."

The Brierley Hill branch of HSBC closed in 2017 and the building has sat dormant since its closure.

Lloyds, the last bank on the high street, closed in June 2018.