Councillors have asked a developer to keep the noise down after approving plans to convert a former bank in Farnham town centre into housing.

Plans by JBS Development to convert part of the former NatWest branch on The Borough and its adjoining wing into six properties have been approved.

David Quick warned Waverley Borough Council that approval could have severe consequences for his Borelli’s Wine Bar and Grill. He fears complaints from future residents over late-night noise from the bar and its courtyard on Fridays and Saturdays will lead to restrictions and possible closure.

He said: “There would be serious noise complaints whatever soundproofing is put in.

“For any restrictions to be imposed on our business would undoubtedly result in closure.”

Architect Derek Copeman said the applicants had gone to “enormous lengths” to provide a compatible scheme that includes a secondary system of approved glazing.

He said to David: “There’s absolutely no intention to create a situation whereby your business is any way threatened.

“You will not have an unwelcome resident next to you, but probably six new customers.”

The applicants say the grade II-listed building will be “meticulously transformed” into a mix of apartments while the plans also include the loss of 23 spaces, with the area being gated off and turned into private parking.

Councillors also offered some assurance to Mr Quick with Cllr Carole Cockburn calling Borelli’s “cherished”.

She said: “I just hope it all works, especially when you’ve got something as treasured as Borelli’s – we can’t have anything that detracts from that.”

Cllr Graham White said: “I think it’s an important business to the town and it’s something we treasure. I’m reasonably confident there will be protection.”

Cllr David Beaman added: “We’ve got to take the word of the applicant but we need to monitor it very carefully.”