WORK to inject a new lease of life into a former Indian restaurant which closed four years ago has begun in Leigh. 

The former Pipasha restaurant, in Eastwood Road North and close to the Woodcutters Arm pub is currently being transformed into a new business. 

Work is taking place at the restaurant and a licencing application, under the name The Med, has been submitted to Southend Council for permission to sell alcohol and play live and recorded music.

Echo: Visiting - Stephen AylenVisiting - Stephen Aylen (Image: Stephen Aylen)

Stephen Aylen, Belfairs ward non-aligned councillor, visited the site and was told it “would be a restaurant” and welcomed the new addition to the area. 

Mr Ayen said: “I very much welcome this addition.

“Pipasha was a very popular restaurant that saw dozens of people going there.

Echo: Replacing - PipashaReplacing - Pipasha (Image: Google Maps)

“The positive news that work is starting to transform the Pipasha building shows how the economy and business of Belfairs is booming and it being a popular place for people to come to.

“From what I could see, the outside of the former Tandoori restaurant has been tidied up a bit and one of the workers confirmed to me it’s going to remain a restaurant.

“There are rumours on Facebook that it could be a steak house, however, the builder did not say which type of restaurant it will be.

“When it does eventually open, I’m sure it’s going to do really well, and I really send all my very best to the new owners with this exciting project.”

It is unclear when the new restaurant will open its doors to the community.

The application by Milan and Ava Limited, which was received on January 16, outlines its hopes for the sale and supply of alcohol on and off the premises from 11am to 11pm, Sunday to Thursday, as well as 11am to 1pm on Friday and Saturday.

A provision of late-night refreshments have also been listed – Sunday to Thursday 11pm to 11.30pm, and 11pm to 1.30am on Friday and Saturday.

Also, the company sets out to have live and recorded music on Friday and Saturday between 11pm and 1am.

Representation for the application must be received by February 15, 2024.