JD WETHERSPOON is making a new bid to expand its existing Keighley pub into the former Berlin’s nightclub next door.

The pub giant hopes to demolish part of the derelict building in North Street and create an open-air beer garden on the ground floor.

Unsightly metal cladding on the front of the building – which was once the Regent Picture House – will be removed to reveal the 19th century stone-built facade.

The project, which would increase the Livery Rooms’ staff from 38 to 50, follows Wetherspoon’s unsuccessful attempt in 2015 to gain planning permission for a roof garden on top of the building.

The latest submission to Bradford Council planners was this week welcomed by district councillors representing Keighley Central ward.

JD etherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon told the Keighley News that the project would reinvigorate North Street and offer a clear public benefit.

He said: “We are confident that the project will enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area and we believe that the redevelopment will act as a catalyst for other businesses to invest in the town too.”

Wetherspoon’s application covers the partial demolition of 101 North Street, which was originally linked to the Town Hall Livery Stables.

The company wants to retain the front-facing elevation and roofslope, to cover part of the beer garden, and remove the existing cladding to restore the 19th century façade beneath.

Wetherspoon have also applied for Listed Building Consent to create two internal entrances from the existing Livery Rooms next door at 89 to 97 North Street.

Keighley Central councillor Zafar Ali said the beer garden would be positive for Keighley if it attracted more people to the Livery Rooms.

He added: “I don’t see any objection so long as the building blends within the street. The work should enhance the building’s appearance and the environment around. The area should look nice and clean for people driving through town.”

Fellow Keighley Central councillor Abid Hussain, the current Lord Mayor of Bradford, said he would love to see more people employed at the Livery Rooms.

He said: “People like to sit in there. We want to see development of existing businesses. I would love to see this building blending in with the other buildings on the street.”

Wetherspoon said a Conservation Area assessment had demonstrated that the dilapidated former nightclub site made a negative contribution to the area.

The company added: “The proposal however seeks to retain, and indeed enhance, the facade, which has hidden significance as the original front of the 19th century building.”