Plans for Hartlepool Doggie Diner - where humans can eat with their hounds - in Seaton Carew

Proposals have been submitted to Hartlepool Borough Council planning department to convert a former shop at 54 Elizabeth Way into a cafe.

The plans have been submitted by Doggie Diner Franchise, based in West Boldon, South Tyneside, and state the new venue would have a simple menu, along with homemade biscuits and cakes for dogs.

The new cafe would bring people to the area and improve an ‘unsightly’ empty building, according to the applicant.

The application said: “We have a simple menu of cake, sandwiches and paninis.

“There is not currently a cafe or restaurant on this existing block of shops, therefore we would bring a new and unique business to the area which is sociable and affordable.

“The unit has been closed in excess of six months where it had previously been used as a convenience store and looks unsightly.

“We will bring new visitors to the block of shops as 50% of customers travel to visit our existing diners as they travel from outside the immediate surrounding area.”

Plans state the cafe would be open 9am until 5pm Monday to Saturday and 11am until 4pm Sundays and bank holidays.

Free customer car parking is already available at the shopping parade, which would be used by the cafe if plans are approved.

Doggie Diner also has existing sites open in Middlesbrough, Durham and Cromer.

To date, one letter of objection and one letter of support has been submitted to the council over the plans.

The letter of support, from a Sedgefield resident, said: ” I think this would be a perfect addition to the area.

“It would definitely bring trade to the area and support local businesses.”

However, a response from a representative at Liberty Catering Solutions, also based at Elizabeth Way shops, raised concerns the new cafe could put her business at risk.

It said: “I currently run a hot food takeaway and this cafe will put me out of business as they will also offer the same service.”

To comment on the application visit the Hartlepool Borough Council planning portal online and search reference number P/2020/0002.