Neighbours have objected to a vacant bank in Chislehurst being transformed into a bar.

The building in Chislehurst High Street was used as a NatWest Bank before it closed in June last year.

Robinson Escott Planning, which wants to turn the former bank into a bar, said the “derelict appearance” of the building is in need of investment to “restore its original character”.

If Bromley Council accepts the plans, the bar would be known as ‘Eleven – Bank House’.

A planning application statement read: “The concept of the proposal is for the former bank to be used for local residents and the community providing a social space for people to meet up, work, eat and drink.”

The statement later added: “Eleven Bank House would bring an inclusive, inviting and creative environment appealing to people across the board, whether they are meeting for work, seeing friends and family, with younger and older people all welcome.”

The proposed bar would also serve food, cocktails and wines.

Opening times for the bar would be 9am to 11pm from Mondays to Sundays.

Four residents who live close to the former bank have written objections to the proposal.

Mark Carter wrote: “This building backs directly onto our house and as such I strongly object to having more noise pollution impacting on the quality of our life.”

Shona Moses added: “Although I think the plans look really nice, there are a number of places in Chislehurst where you can drink and eat within a stone's throw e.g. The Queens Head, Zizzi's, Cote, Gusto.

“There's no justification for another eating / drinking venue at the further expense of residents living in Camden Grove."

Moira Miller said: “Because of its very close proximity to the homes on Camden Grove, the Bank House property inherently forms part of the residential area, and a drinking establishment would be in conflict with the nature of our neighbourhood.”