PLANS have been resubmitted to build a two-storey extension at a popular Chinese restaurant, following the withdrawal of a larger proposal in 2009.

Mings Garden in Church Street, Falmouth, has applied to make the changes to create extra restaurant space.

A scheme identical to the new plan was approved in 2014, but has now been submitted again. Although residents objected to the proposal 11 years ago, Cornwall Council case officer Sophie Rogers supported it as long as conditions were imposed.

She said at the time: “The design, scale and siting are all considered appropriate for this contemporary addition that would be respectful of the host building as a listed historic structure and would preserve and enhance the character and appearance of the designated conservation area.”

Listed building consent is also being sought as the restaurant – built in 1870 and formerly a bank – is Grade II listed within Falmouth’s conservation area.

At lower ground floor level, the existing store rooms are proposed to be opened up to form a new bar area with additional space within the extension. A planning statement adds: “It is proposed to make better use of the existing garden area by introducing an external garden terrace area with restricted hours of use.

“The design philosophy behind the proposed extension is to provide a contemporary element to the existing building that takes full advantage of the views across Falmouth while respecting the character and appearance of the listed building and surrounding conservation area.”

The application also includes the removal of an “unsightly” external fire escape to be replaced by escape access within an existing internal stairwell to the rear of the property. The overall extent of the additional structure has been reduced from the 2009 plan and would now have a footprint of 7.4m x 3.4m.