A PLANNING battle over a new Winchester restaurant will come to a head this week.

A city council planning committee will decide on Thursday (June 20) whether to approve an application to change the use of Abbey Mill from office to restaurant.

Applications have also been submitted for major alterations and repairs to the building and for the erection of several signs.

The council wants to let the building to River Cottage, run by celebrity chef and food campaigner Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, which wants to make it a 180-seat eatery.

Council officers have recommended the committee approve the application, arguing the restaurant will boost tourism and rental income.

But more than 20 residents in neighbouring Colebrook Street have objected, citing noise and traffic concerns.

Residents have also urged the council to find another tenant who will keep the building as an office.

The plans also include a deli, bar and open fronted kitchen at the restaurant while a plan to remove nearby flowerbeds to make room for outdoor seating has already been approved.

It would create 27 full-time jobs and 18 part-time.

Abbey Mill was used as a restaurant during World War Two but more recently has been used as council offices.