A MARKET-style food court which would create 18 jobs could be opened in Southampton.

A new food court with bars, takeaway and a soft play area is set to be created on land at the back of the Broadway in Portswood Road.

The new venue would open from 8am to 10pm from Monday to Friday and from 10am to 10pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

The plans have been put forward by Lainston Broadway LLP and are set to be approved by city councillors tonight.

The former laundry building at the site is set to be revamped to host the new food hall.

According to the proposals, there will be seven food stalls and a café / deli

arranged in a line starting next to the main entrance door.

Customer tables and benches will be located in the centre of the building while other facilities will include bars, a soft play area, office, stores and toilets.

The existing pedestrian access is also set to be improved by laying new

brick paving.

Some local residents have complained over the impact the new food court would have on noise, anti-social behaviour and parking.

But planning bosses have recommended the scheme for approval.

They said the proposed opening hours are “suitable” for the District Centre and the area is “well served by frequent bus services”.

In an official document they added: “The proposal would bring a vacant building back into use which would have a positive impact on the vitality and viability of the Centre. No external alterations are proposed other than a rear flue and, therefore, the change of use is considered to be in keeping with the site and surroundings. The proposal would not have a harmful impact on residential amenity. The positive aspects of the scheme are not judged to be outweighed by the negative and as such the scheme is recommended for conditional approval.”

The Planning and Rights of Way Panel at Southampton City Council will discuss the plans at a meeting set to take place at the civic centre at 6pm.