THE former NatWest bank in Cowes is being transformed into a Victorian-style street adorned with shops.

The High Street building is being brought back to life as a shopping arcade and is destined to be home to a Post Office, as well selling local arts and crafts and pop culture memorabilia once officially opened as ‘Cowes Town Central’.

The conversion will include visitor bed and breakfast accommodation according to plans which have been lodged with the Isle of Wight Council.

Manager of the precinct, Leon Milner, said: "The new shopping parade will bring the story of the famous Silk Road to life.

"It is to bring the community back to a central point.

"We have silk scarves and pearls which are sourced from China and even replica Terracotta Army figures.

"We will also have Dr Who, Marvel and music memorabilia, including a whole section devoted to The Beatles, and, very importantly, a new Post office for the town centre."