A historic townhouse in the centre of Bath, once believed to be occupied by one of the city’s leading citizens, could soon be turned into an Asian restaurant.

A plaque on No. 1 North Parade Buildings, just across from Sally Lunn’s, claims it was once home of John Palmer, who was Bath’s MP from 1801-1807, twice Mayor of Bath, and who introduced mail coaches to the postal service.

But soon the Grade II listed building could be home to “Asian fusion cuisine” amid plans to turn the building — which was most recently a Betfred — into a restaurant.

A planning application has been submitted to Bath and North East Somerset Council to repaint the signage, install a kitchen, refit upgraded toilet facilities, and remove modern partitions inside to create more space for the restaurant. A partial lower ceiling would be installed to enclose ducting and services on the ceiling.

A statement submitted with the application warned: “The building is suffering from neglect, lack of maintenance, and vandalism, which is negatively impacting the listed building, the conservation area, and other nearby heritage assets.

“The proposed change of use to a restaurant is in keeping with the local area, as the properties facing North Parade Passage are largely restaurants and pubs.”