PLANNERS have backed plans to transform a former Harvey’s restaurant into a dental surgery.

The former New York Bar & Grill closed over the summer, having only been set-up at the site of Pwllheli’s former Conservative Club in 2017.

But Gwynedd Council planning officers have now approved the change of use proposals by Glandwr Dental Practice, with the supporting documents stating  eight full time and two part-time employees would be needed.

The future of the practice’s existing sites in Pwllheli and Criccieth has not been made clear. 

The restaurant, based on the town’s Maes, had been on the market since the summer after failing to reopen following the initial 2020 lockdown.

It had been claimed that while the business in Pwllheli had been a success, the family owners had decided to sell up due to other business commitments, with a £500,000 asking price.

With no objections being raised during the consultation phase, the plans were approved by officers without being called into the planning committee.

The officers’ report said: “It is considered that the proposed use is acceptable and that the development will not harm the amenities and character of the area nor the viability of the town centre.

“All relevant planning issues have been considered in determining this application but it has not changed the recommendation.”