A former travel agents in Compton which has stood empty for more than five months could be transformed into a takeaway.

Plans have been submitted to Wolverhampton City Council to revamp the former Harvey World Travel shop into a hot food takeaway and delivery service.

The travel shop, in the Swan Shopping Centre in Bridgnorth Road, closed in June with the loss of three jobs after the company went into administration.

A sign in the window reveals the proposals, although the council was today unable to immediately confirm the applicant.

Nearby shopkeepers have welcomed the news the empty unit could be brought back to life.

Brothers Malcolm and Gordon Crump have run businesses in Compton for 40 years and their Spar store is next door to the proposed takeaway.

Gordon said: “I think it will bring trade to us and it’s better than having empty units. We’re just thankful it’s been taken up.”

He said the plan might also help boost security in the small shopping precinct.

But Malcolm said: “We’ve had the odd comment from customers who aren’t happy about it because of concerns over the litter and smells, but generally the reaction is fairly positive.”

However, Diane Parker, owner of A Cottage Garden florists, across the road from the proposed new takeaway, said: “I’d rather see the shop full than empty – whatever it is.