One of the country’s top Fish and Chip Restaurants has unveiled exciting plans to open a new eatery at an iconic North East landmark.

Colmans of South Shields plan to convert the Sea Road bandstand, known locally as Gandhi’s Temple, into a new restaurant which will also include a cocktail bar and takeaway.

Plans were submitted to South Tyneside Council last month and would mark the first new base since current owners Richard and Frances Ord took over the family business in 1990.

Mr Ord, whose Ocean Road business has won countless awards including Best Restaurant in the National Fish and Chip Awards, said: "The Temple is an iconic building situated on one of the best blue flag beaches in Europe. My great grandfather started up his business Frankie’s on the beach in 1905 just a stone’s throw away from the Temple and I love the idea of restoring a piece of our town’s history and heritage too.

"We are eager to create a restaurant which engages with those that live, work and visit South Shields. It is a fantastic site and somewhere we feel we can make a real impact.”

The new restaurant will be called Colman^s Seafood Temple and it is expected to take six months to turn around the ambitious plans. It is expected to add another 35 jobs to an already 35-stong team.

Mr and Mrs Ord expanded their current base in 2011 after listening closely to customers.

"Our coast offers some of the best fish and seafood in the UK,” said Mr Ord, "most of which will be reflected on our menus.

"The Temple is about offering everyday quality and value for money, in a restaurant that makes you feel good. It will also feature a cocktail & oyster bar and a takeaway, which will, of course, serve our famous fish and chips.

"Our seafood will be sustainably caught with much certified by MSC (Marine Stewardship Council), and much will come from our local fisherman and we will, of course, use the fantastic local produce our region has become famous for.

"Our aim is to create an informal family seafood restaurant, value for money, great service and fantastic views to match!”

For more information about the eatery, which can count Patrick Stewart, Tony Blair and Sting among its fan, visit www.colmansfishandchips.com or follow them on Twitter @ColmansSeafood.