IT has been confirmed that a pizza restaurant chain will open a branch on Winchester High Street.

Pizza Express has applied for an alcohol licence at the former Debenhams store at unit 3, 12-15 on the city's central street.

The other two restaurants moving into the unit have already been confirmed as Nando's and Five Guys.

READ MORE: Pizza Express in Winchester to close as base goes on the market

Pizza Express on Bridge Street (Image: Savills) The pizza chain has handed in its application to Winchester City Council, requesting the right to sell alcohol between 10am and midnight from Monday to Saturday, and between 12.30pm and 11.30pm on Sundays and public holidays.

Winchester's Pizza Express is currently open on Bridge Street but is due to close after estate agent Savills put the building up for rent.

On the form detailing Pizza Express's application, the council details the licensing objectives as:

  • The prevention of crime and disorder
  • Public safety
  • The prevention of public nuisance
  • The protection of children from harm

It has been rumoured for months that the franchise planned to move into unit 3.

The news comes after the hoardings outside the former Debenhams were removed as work continues to prepare the building for its opening.