A SURFBOARD shop could become a new bar with "potential" for future restaurant use.

Plans have been put to Vale of Glamorgan Council to turn a surfboard shop at Herbert Terrace in Penarth into a bar with "the potential to incorporate a restaurant use in the future".

The application reads: "The change of use will support the vitality and diversification of the local area, providing a social and hospitality offering that complements existing businesses while maintaining the character of Herbert Terrace."

The bar is proposed to operate seven days a week with opening hours from 9am to 11pm.

According to planning documents the development is "expected to contribute positively to the local economy by creating up to four full-time employment opportunities".

The existing building is currently operated by Pura Vida Boardriders at Unit 2 of Herbert Terrace.

According to applicant Virigil-Octavian Frincu the existing building will remain "unchanged externally and internally" with "only minor non-structural fit-out works" required to facilitate its use as a bar.

Vale of Glamorgan councillor Neil Thomas did not file an objection to the application but did attach a letter that reads: "Other than to make the general observation that Penarth is well served with hospitality outlets I have no further comments at this time."

The application reads: "The proposed use is a small-scale bar operation. Activities on site will be limited to the serving of beverages and light food preparation (if applicable in the future)."

It continues: "No industrial processes will take place. Equipment will be typical of a bar setting and may include refrigeration units, glass washers, cellar cooling equipment, and standard bar service fixtures."

Elsewhere it reads: "The proposed change of use has been discussed with the current leaseholder of the premises, the adjoining neighbouring occupier (Tesco Express), also the landlord.

"These discussions have been positive, with no objections raised."

A decision is currently pending from the council and it is expected that it will make its decision on the development in early July.