It has lain dormant since the beginning of lockdown, but now the Bill's building in Taunton looks like it might be getting a new lease of life.
The former restaurant on Fore Street shut when Covid restrictions were put in place by the government in March 2020, but after briefly reopening in November 2020, it has remained closed.
The Grade II listed building has stood empty for nearly two years, despite suggestions from members of the public about what could fill it.
But things could be changing following the recent submission of a licensing application.
Deckhouse (Taunton) Ltd has applied to Somerset West and Taunton council for a 'minor variation' seeking to make changes to the layout, including moving the banquette seating, rotating the bar 90 degrees on its axis, as well as updating the general decor.
The application was received by the council last Wednesday (September 14) and the closing date by which representations can be received is Wednesday, October 5.
The Somerset County Gazette has contacted the council for comments and more information.
What do we know about Deckhouse (Taunton) Ltd?
Deckhouse (Taunton Ltd) is a private company incorporated on 19 July 2022, according to Companies House, an executive agency, sponsored by the Government's Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy.
Its registered office address is Sabre Close, Quedgeley, Gloucester, Gloucestershire and it lists four people as directors; Tom Cullen, Dominic Dochert, Mark McQuater and Nick Morgan.
All four men are also listed as directors of Deckhouse Ltd Public whose nature of business is 'public houses and bars'.
Mr Cullen is also listed as the director of Dark Bar Drinks Ltd, Stir Crazy Drinks Ltd and Pierhead Cafe and Bars Ltd.
What happened to Bill's?
Bill's opened its doors in July 2015 and continued to sell breakfasts, lunches, and dinners until last year, when it remained closed following the easing of lockdown measures.
After it was forced to close during the Covid pandemic in March 2020, there was uncertainty over whether it would re-open, with a sign on the door saying it was “closed until further notice”.
It did later re-open in November 2020 but was forced to close again last year, with the company unable to confirm if or when it would welcome customers back.
Despite this latest application, signs in the window state that the premises (3-6 Cheapside, Fore Street) is available to let through Arc Retail Property Consultants.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here