Andrew Black Design has received planning permission for its proposal to convert the category B-listed building into a two-storey café with direct access to Seabraes Park.

Sitting on a site within the University Conservation Area, the former public toilet building was closed in the 1990s and has since fallen into disrepair.

The practice said: “Our proposal aims to breathe new life into the neglected property by constructing a new café building at street level with substantial south and west-facing windows and space for 18 covers.

“The café extends down to the basement level, where it will incorporate seating for an additional 26 covers, a WC, and back-of-house facilities. Meanwhile, an external decking area with space for 20 covers creates a seamless link between the café, the popular park and the street.

“Many of the existing historic decorative features will be refurbished and retained, preserving much of the charm and character of the original building.

“The new café will neatly ‘bookend’ the building row, adding a contemporary element to the streetscape.”

The council highlighted the project’s potential to “support the vibrancy, vitality, and viability of the area”.