BREWERY chain BrewDog has submitted plans to open a new pub in Bournemouth.

The Scottish beer firm has applied to BCP Council for permission to convert the empty restaurant unit beneath Five Guys at BH2 into its newest bar.

It said the site was an “ideal” location and that the business would “enhance the vitality and vibrancy” of the town centre.

The multinational company, which is based in Ellon, has dozens of bars in the UK, including one in Southampton, as well as 20 more overseas.

A planning application has now been submitted by the chain, outlining its intention to establish its latest outlet in the BH2 centre.

Its plans seek permission from BCP Council to change the use class of the restaurant unit beneath Five Guys to allow for a pub to be set up and outdoor seating installed.

A statement submitted with its application says the town centre location nearby to other pubs and restaurants made it the “ideal” location.

It adds that the bar would have a “full food offering” and seeks permission for opening hours of 10am-12.30am Sunday to Thursday and 10am-1.30am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Kitchen systems installed for the restaurant unit will be used, meaning no work is required to the outside of the building, except for the installation of new signs.

“There are no policies protecting restaurant uses in this location, and other town centre uses such as public houses are supported,” it says.

“The principle of the proposed change of use of the premises to a bar is therefore acceptable and aligns with all relevant policy guidance.”

It said there were no plans for any dance floors or live music performances and said its staff would be “highly trained” in “beer education” to have greater knowledge of the bar’s drinks.

The unit comes with a lease running through until 2041 and costs just under £120,000 per year in rent, according to a listing published by Savills.

"The proposed occupation of the premises by BrewDog would help to extend and enhance the town centre’s daytime and evening economy, improving the facilities available to the local community and to visitors," the statement adds. "It would complement the wider area and town centre and help to support the other existing commercial uses."

Council planning officers will consider the application in the coming weeks.