JD WETHERSPOON has set its sights on two Huntingdonshire towns.

The national pub chain is looking at refurbishing the Warehouse Clearance store in Market Hill, St Ives, and is also believed to be in negotiations for a building in Huntingdon, which has been a long-term target.

A spokesman for JD Wetherspoon said: “We don’t comment on specific sites, however, we can confirm that St Ives is a town we are keen on and we are interested in Huntingdon.”

Commercial property agents Budworth Hardcastle, which is marketing the Warehouse Clearance store, said the building currently has temporary tenants but would not confirm Wetherspoon’s interest.

St Neots-based Barford + Co are joint agents for the Old Post Office in Brampton Road, Huntingdon, which Wetherspoon is believed to be interested in.

Councillor Bill Hensley, mayor of Huntingdon, said: “I am very much in favour this year of local, local, local so anything which helps local people I am in favour of.

“My personal view is that it will be welcome. Having a Wetherspoon in town might revitalise the nightlife. I have spoken to a number of takeaway owners who say there is no one around at night. You walk down the High Street at 10pm and it’s empty.”

He added: “I think it will bring jobs to the area and will also increase the money that BID Huntingdon will receive, so all of the town’s retailers will benefit.

“But it has to be well managed and needs to learn the mistakes of [nightclub] Level 2. Safety and good behaviour is paramount.”

An announcement from Wetherspoon is expected in the coming weeks.