PLANS to transform an empty shop into a micropub have been given the green light.

The Westhoughton venue, in Market Street, will be called The Beer Store and will sell specialist, local, craft-brewed ale in bottles, growlers and from cask.

Bolton Council gave the proposal the go-ahead last week following a unanimous approval from Westhoughton town councillors in June.

The venue was formerly a wine store before being opened for a short period as a pet store — but has mainly been empty since 2009.

There will be seating for 24 people in the pub, with the ground floor being used as a micro pub and off licence, which will serve until 10pm, while the first floor will be used for storage in conjunction with the pub and off-license.

Rachel Birch, director of The Beer School said: "It will become another reason for people to visit Westhoughton and add to the developing charm of Market Street.

"I am already actively involved in local community events and will continue to promote my home town with passion and pride."

The micro-pub is one of a number of shops that have recently been filled in Westhoughton town centre, after an appeal by Town Councillor David Wilkinson to fill empty Market Street venues.

Mr Wilkinson said: "I think it is a really good application.

"Micro-pubs are popping up all over the country and it is because they offer people choice.

"I think it will bring a boom into Westhoughton because there are a lot of people that want to try something different.

"I think we only have four commercial properties empty in the town centre now which is quite an achievement.

"I really hope the business works as I think it will be a great addition."

The micro-pub, which is currently undergoing refurbishment, before its opening later in the year, will be staffed full-time, from noon until 11pm and have two part-time staff for evenings and weekends.

There will also be a facility for people to see how the brewery produces its beer.