THE mystery major restaurant chain with eyes on a prominent town centre spot is believed to be Prezzo.

Your Malvern Gazette understands the Italian outlet has applied to Malvern Hills District Council to transform the premises formerly occupied by Jelf Clarke Roxburgh and Malvern Curtains in Belle Vue Terrace.

However, a spokesman for the chain, which opened its first restaurant in 2000 and can now be found in more than 160 locations across the UK, said they do not comment on individual sites.

Under the plans for 20-24 Belle Vue Terrace there would be a change of use of the ground floor to restaurant use and the change of use of the first and second floors to residential use.

It would also include part demolition and an extension to the rear.

According to their website, all Prezzo restaurants are all individually designed and the chain is renowned for offering a quality menu at value for money prices.