CLYDEBANK is set to welcome a “cheeky” Nando’s and Tony Macaroni as the latest businesses to show their support for the town with 80 jobs.

West Dunbartonshire Council’s planning committee approved a change of use for the current Harry Corry store at Clyde Shopping Centre, in between the Domino’s takeaway and McDonald’s.

An estimated 40 full-time and 40 part-time jobs would be created by the two stores.

A spokeswoman for Nando’s said: “We’re currently hatching plans to open a Nando’s in Clydebank later this year – PERi PERi fans should watch this space.”

The plan is to divide the 921sqm unit into two restaurants with full height glass windows and doors, a small area of external seating in front of each, and a wider footway, forcing the removal of one disabled parking bay.

There were previous applications to subdivide the unit and change them into a betting shop and public house. Both applications were granted on appeal in 2015 but never implemented.

Committee papers stated: “The applicant indicates that the anticipated occupiers of these units are two large restaurant chains Tony Macaroni and Nando’s. It is expected that these two businesses would employ a total of 40 full-time and 40 part-time staff between them. It is understood that the present tenants have for several years occupied the site on a short-term, zero-rent basis whilst the landlord attempted to find a new long-term tenant.

“It is considered that the proposed use would contribute positively to the vitality and viability of the town centre and would not have a detrimental impact on the character and amenity of the area.”

There were no public comments on the application and councillors on the committee also made no comments.

GL Hearn, who made the application, deferred questions to centre owner, who did not reply to a request for comment.

Damon Scott, chief executive of Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce, welcomed the news of the applications.

He said: “The addition of an international chain like Nando’s and Scottish brand, Tony Macaroni, should be a positive one. Both have a good reputation, brand strength and pulling power.

“This will continue to strengthen the retail and leisure mix in Clydebank providing more compelling reasons to visit, increasing customer numbers, dwell time and spend in the area. The creation of jobs will also benefit the local economy.

“The Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce looks forward to welcoming both businesses to the area.”