A former County Durham bank which has stood empty is set to be revitalised as a popular fish and chip shop that already has several regional units.

The former Barclays Bank on North Terrace in Seaham has been sat empty since the branch was closed down in February last year.

However, the building is now set to be transformed into a fish and chip shop after plans were accepted by Durham County Council last week.

Read more: Northumberland Council ex-CEO claims £40k of expenses

Well known in the North East, Bells Fish and Chips, which has shops across the region, will take over the building.

A statement accompanying the plans, which were submitted to the council last September, state: "Barclays Bank closed the Seaham branch on Friday, February 11 2022 as a result of the decrease in face-to-face banking following the increase in online and alternative banking arrangements.

"The existing building has been offered for sale to the open market where the applicant has identified the site as a suitable location for a high quality fish and chip shop restaurant and takeaway."

Durham County Council approved the plans for the Seaham chip shop on Thursday, April 13.