Major coffee chain Costa is set to move into Dumbarton High Street after councillors granted the firm planning permission.

The coffee shop will take over the vacant unit on the corner of High Street and Quay Street, which was previously occupied by Game Station.

Considerable refurbishment is expected to be made to the property, both internally and externally, with an outside seating area also planned.

It is proposed that the Costa would be open from 7am to 8pm, seven days a week.

The proposals were approved at a meeting of West Dunbartonshire’s Planning Committee on Wednesday, with the condition that an outstanding issue concerning access to a room at the back of the property for bin storage was resolved.

The bin store was sold to Costa by the building’s owners, however residents claim the store belongs to them in paperwork dating back to the 1950s.

It’s understood the residents are happy for Costa to move in and the dispute can be sorted amicably in the near future.

Councillor Lawrence O’Neill, convener of the Planning Committee, said: “I’m delighted such a recognised retailer has chosen to move to Dumbarton High Street.

“The council is committed to constantly improving the town centre and I’m sure residents will welcome the arrival of such a well known coffee outlet. This is another boost for the town centre, with the council offices set to move into the old Dumbarton Academy building as well.” Provost Douglas McAllister, depute-convener of the Planning Committee, said: “Apart from a couple of short-term tenants, this unit has been vacant since 2012. So it is great that a retailer such as Costa is looking to take this property on and invest time and money into improving Dumbarton High Street. We are constantly striving improve economic growth and employment opportunities across West Dunbartonshire and this is just another example of the council delivering in this regard.” Councillor Ian Murray, of the SNP, said: “I suspect the local coffee shops may be a bit apprehensive but I think there is room for Costa which may attract a different customer.

“It’s good to see an empty property being filled and I feel sure it will help the local economy.” Councillor Thomas Rainey, of Labour, said: “The presence of a national chain in Dumbarton town centre is complementary to our plans to do all we can to grow the local economy and revitalise our town centres.

“I hope to see Costa providing jobs for local people and attracting others to use our town centre more, which must be good for our local businesses.”