A Waterfront warehouse will be turned into a restaurant after planners backed its redevelopment on Wednesday. 

A proposal was submitted in November to transform the former Burton Son and Sanders warehouse in St Peter’s Wharf into a lounge bar and restaurant.

The application for Loungers was discussed by Ipswich Borough Council's planning committee on Wednesday and was approved.

It had been recommended to get the green light by planning officers who said due to the site being vacant for a "significant period of time" the change of use would have a "positive impact upon the area".

Ipswich Star: The unused warehouse will now be turned into a restaurant.The unused warehouse will now be turned into a restaurant. (Image: Charlotte Bond)

The applicant for the new bar and restaurant, Loungers UK Limited, already operates more than 230 sites across the country through two brands, The Lounges and The Cosy Clubs, which serve food and alcohol on the premises.

It is hoped the bar could be open in October this year. 

Previously Gemma Irwin, community manager at Loungers, said: "We hope our family friendly environment and top-notch food and drink offering will prove popular with local residents. 

"We're passionate about integrating genuinely into the communities we serve so we're looking forward to meeting everyone and to playing our part at the heart of Ipswich's food and drink scene."

Speaking in December, Neil MacDonald, Ipswich Borough Council leader, said: “This unique Lounge continues the redevelopment of Ipswich Waterfront, making St Peter’s Wharf a welcoming entrance to Ipswich Waterfront, which is a key part of our commitment to regenerating Ipswich into a vibrant destination for eating, drinking, education, and entertainment.

"We’re pleased to be taking steps forward to ensuring it remains a prominent feature in the area for generations ahead to enjoy.

"This historic building is an important part of the town’s maritime past, therefore its vital that the industrial characteristics of the building are retained in its refurbishment.

"Its development into a restaurant makes it another fantastic addition to the area, giving further choice and high-quality dining to residents and visitors to Ipswich."