The new cafe bar in Market Street - occupying the former HSBC Bank building - is to be called Centivo Lounge.

A planning application for the signage to be displayed inside and outside the venue shows the name.

The Loungers national chain of bars confirmed last summer it was moving into Ashby.

The Bristol-based company already operates over 200 venues in the UK - and will add Ashby to that list by moving to what has been described as an 'iconic' site, which is Grade II listed.

It is hoped the Ashby bar will be open sometime in November.

Image: North West Leicestershire District Council/Richard Pedlar Architects

"Vacant buildings do not make a positive contribution to the local area.

"Combined with its undoubted architectural merit, it is now even more critical that a sustainable, financially viable use is found for this Grade II Listed building.

"The proposed use as a Lounge will be a popular destination for locals of all ages, encouraging social interaction within the community.

"This use will complement the existing character of the area, will encourage an 'active frontage' and will strengthen the local shopping area.

"The café bar will be open throughout the day and into the evening, will be food-led and will have a particular appeal to families - 'vertical drinking' is not encouraged.

"The café/bar will be operated by Loungers UK Limited, a successful Bristol-based company that is expanding its Lounge units and Cosy Club restaurants across the country.

The new Ashby cafe-bar could look like this when it opens. Photo: Loungers

"Loungers presents a prestige offering and are experienced in dealing with listed buildings across the country.

"They have won awards for both the quality of their conversions and their product.

The Loungers group sources produce from local suppliers wherever possible and this will benefit the local economy.

"The hiring of locally-based staff and the increased footfall will inevitably aid the economy of nearby retail units, thus contributing to the economic sustainability of Ashby.

"The proposed use will make the building more 'outward looking' and will help integrate the building back into the life of the town."

The bar's signage has now been given planning permission with the Loungers' statement adding: "The new sign will spell out the words 'CENTIVO' and 'LOUNGE.' The words CAFE BAR will also be applied to the left of the main sign, in gold flat plate letters."

Loungers' statement also listed a number of benefits from re-opening the bank as a cafe-bar. The company says:

• The building is important in terms of its contribution to the appearance of Market Street

• The proposed use of the building, being opened to the public both during the day and at evenings as a family friendly, food-led operation, provides a true public benefit in revitalising the asset, and enlivening the Street

• The re-vitalisation of an existing building within a prominent location will also contribute positively both economically and socially to the Listed Building, the Conservation Area and the town more generally.