FRINTON’S Connaught Avenue could lose its unique character if it breaks away from its retail roots and develops a cafe culture, it is feared.

Once a top spot for shoppers, the famous avenue has seen several cafes and restaurants pop up in recent years.

A new application has now been launched to change the closed-down HSBC bank branch in Connaught Avenue into an eaterie.

But some councillors fear the trend could mean Frinton’s identity is lost.

Mayor Iris Johnson said: “I think it’s a shame that it is going this way and it gives the area a completely different feel from our traditions.

“There has got to be a limit to the number of restaurants and cafes we have.

“People say they want the cafe culture, but we are a little English town and we need to hold on to our character for as long as we possibly can."

The HSBC branch in Connaught Avenue closed at the end of last year.

Frinton and Walton Town Council discussed a bid to change the use of the building from a bank to a restaurant at its last meeting.

Most councillors decided they would rather see the property become a cafe than stand empty, while it could boost business for other retailers in the avenue.

The council eventually recommended approval, but Tendring Council has the final decision.