A FORMER town centre bank is being transformed into a new restaurant and flats. 

The bank closed in 2018 as part of a nationwide branch programme.

Now, four years later, work is underway to breathe new life into the dormant building situated on Blackwellgate, which fronts the pedestrianised shopping area in the town centre.

A change of use proposal to convert the former bank to a mixed use restaurant/hot food takeaway on the ground floor and two three-bedroom flats above was approved by Darlington Council last year. 

And plans for a new sign with "halo illuminated lettering" on the building have also been given the green light. 

The Northern Echo:

Drawings submitted to the council show a sign for "Yoby: Fried Chicken and Noodle Bar".

Building work is currently ongoing inside the venue but similar signs have also been spotted inside. 

It is unclear when the new restaurant will open its doors but a job advertisement is currently posted on the window. It is calling for an experienced supervisor, kitchen staff and team members to join its workforce. 

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