Plans have been lodged to renovate the Queensberry Hotel

The Barracuda Group is in negotiations to secure the lease to operate the former Queensberry Hotel in English Street creating 35 jobs.

It has now lodged an application with Dumfries and Galloway Council in order to bring the building back into use.

The prominent town centre site has lain empty since it closed suddenly about two years ago.

It is part of major expansion plans by the Barracuda Group north of the border.

'Unique features'

Spokesperson Sarah Calderbank confirmed the company's plans for the building.

Negotiations started earlier this year but Barracuda has now submitted a full application to renovate the hotel.

Ms Calderbank said the company planned to build a 15-bedroom hotel creating about 35 full and part-time jobs.

She added: "Barracuda will work with the local listed building officer to ensure the site's unique features are preserved and enhanced.

"The total investment will represent around �1.4m by the company."

Barracuda also plans to operate a pub and restaurant as part of the hotel under its Smith and Jones banner.