A new store is hoping to open its doors in Borehamwood’s “ghost town” later this year, but has faced criticism from a number of traders.

Kosher bakery Mr Baker hopes to open a new restaurant in Shenley Road, Borehamwood - an area that Mayor Paul Morris has pledged to revamp from its ghost-town state.

The current properties, at 33 and 35 Shenley Road, have been vacant for some time, but the restuarant has now submitted an application to change one building from a retail site to a restaurant.

The two stores will be given a new shop front, and a single storey extension will be put up at the back of the property.

However some traders have claimed that the applications have come too late, suggesting that major work is already being carried out at the property.

Hertsmere Borough Council has been informed of the work allegedly being undertaken at the premises and a planning enforcement investigation is on-going.

In a recent site visit, a planning officer told workers that all construction at the property must cease until planning matters have been clarified by the council.

The owners have been in contact with the planning department and have submitted a “substantial” amount of information in order to help the authorities effectively handle the matter.

Neighbouring residents and traders are now being given the opportunity to add their comments on the applications before a decision is made by July 14.