A NEW coffee house could act as a ‘magnet’ to increase footfall in Westhoughton town centre.

Bolton Council has given the green light to proposals to convert the old offices of True Shone and Kerr estate agents in Market Street into a cafe.

The estate agents vacated the building earlier this year when their lease ran out.

Town hall planning officers say they are positive about the potential impact of the coffee shop on the town.

Granting permission for the plans, the planning office said: “The proposed use of the unit as a coffee house would help sustain and complement the existing retail and leisure facilities within Westhoughton town centre, particularly as a retail destination for the south-western part of the borough — as this end use can be a ‘magnet’ for footfall in the area.”

“The principle of the development is considered acceptable and there are no unacceptable impacts on streetscene, neighbouring amenity or highways identified.”