A CITY centre bar looks set to be converted into a popular Thai restaurant.

Chokdee, the business name of the Giggling Squid brand, is seeking permission to sell takeaway food from Winchester's former Slug and Lettuce building.

The company, which has nearby branches in Chichester and Salisbury, has applied to alter the planning conditions of 12-13 The Square.

In its application, Chokdee said: "The planning approval for restaurant use was awarded back in 1997. In this period take away food was associated with eating in public spaces and the anti-social aspect of litter and food being dropped in those public spaces.

"This is no longer the case and 'Click and Collect' and 'Delivery Services' are seen as an essential norm for a restaurant to offer where restaurant quality food can be enjoyed at home. This is why condition 7 of the 1997 planning approval is being sought to be removed."

Winchester City Council is yet to decide on the application.

As previously reported, September 12 was Slug and Lettuce's last day in The Square, according to a sign in the window.

Giggling Squid, which specialises in Thai dishes, is a southern chain with a number of restaurants in London.