The owners of the former Grimwades store on Ipswich Cornhill are seeking approval to turn part of the building into a restaurant in a bid to find a permanent use for it.

There has been no permanent use for the building since Clinton Cards moved out in 2012.

It has been used by a number of pop-up fashion and discount retailers over the last four years, but there has not been any permanent use for what is one of the most prominent buildings in the heart of Ipswich.

A planning application for restaurant use has been lodged with Ipswich council by the owners of the building, but it is understood that no tenant is lined up at this stage – it is thought they are trying to increase the options for a potential new occupant.

Portfolio holder for planning at the borough Carole Jones said the proposal would be considered by the council’s planners over the next few months.

“This is a very visible key site in the very heart of the town centre and we welcome in principle any bid to bring a high quality and permanent use here which could breathe new life into the Cornhill.

“There is confidence in Ipswich town centre – just look at Sailmakers and the redevelopment of the Buttermarket – and we look forward to examining these latest proposals at committee in the near future.”

A number of new restaurants are currently opening in the Buttermarket Centre as part of the redevelopment of that site alongside the new Empire multiplex cinema which is due to open during the run-up to the Christmas season.