SEVERAL major restaurant chains are interested in taking over a former butchers in Anniesland.

The store on Great Western Road has been vacant for four years with a for sale sign up during that time.

Planning permission is being sought by the letting agents Ewan Mackay Property Consultants to change the use of the unit from retail to restaurant - after they have failed to acquire a tenant for the unit.

They, however, believe that if the city council give them planning permission to change the use of the unit, they could acquire a restaurant to take over the site.

In a statement, the firm said: "Unfortunately, despite our extensive marketing campaign and various incentive packages, we have been unsuccessful in generating any meaningful interest in the property on the basis of a new lease.

"We have exhausted every enquiry for this unit and tried diligently to encourage both national and local retailers to take this space.

"We have several restaurant operators who are interested in acquiring this space and represent the only firm interest we have received for occupying the premises. They would be able to take a long-term lease, offer a quality fit and enhance this location on Great Western Road."

The firm say that some of the restaurants who have expressed interest in the unit include Smoak, Ameretto, Rusk & Rusk, Sarti, Villa Toscani and Panevino.

A decision is expected to be made on the application by December 22.