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Reading's House of Fraser could be converted into a spectacular new unit featuring a long-awaited bowling alley.

The Oracle Shopping Centre has submitted plans which, if permitted, could see the massive department store divided into smaller units.

The plans are to divide the three-storey shop into two restaurants on the ground,two retail units and a "leisure unit".

And the papers submitted to Reading Borough Council confirm the "applicant is in discussions with a bowling alley operator in respect of this unit".

Part of the giant department store could also be used for an indoor mini-golf centre.

The store is one of The Oracle's originals and has been there since its opening in 1999 .

However, the company has been struggling recently .

The application states the unit has faced a "number of challenges" over the years, particularly how it faces out on to Bridge Street rather than the riverside.

The plans say: "There is a need to develop a scheme that repurposes this space, incorporating uses that reflect the evolution of shopping centres to provide a mix of activities and destinations.

"Alongside elements of retail, leisure and food and drink should also be accommodated to complement and strengthen the existing Riverside day and evening offer.

"By creating new units which face onto this inactive element of the Riverside, users will be encouraged to remain in the locale, given the opportunity to extend their dwell time with leisure and food/drink."

If the plans are permitted, the ground floor will contain a new "Food Hall unit" facing on to the riverside.

It is likely to contain a "a number of small specialist food vendors arranged around a communal seating area" and a bar.

poll loading What would you like to see replace House of Fraser? 500+ VOTES SO FAR Bowling Alley Laser Quest Roller Disco House of Fraser

(Image: The Oracle)

The bowling alley would be on the lower ground floor of the building.

The current entrance to the shop is hoped to house a new small cafe or coffee shop.

Another unit inside will remain as a smaller shop.

The plans also propose an additional 16 car parking spaces on the roof of the Holy Brook car park.

A spokeswoman for The Oracle said: "In line with our strategy of reducing department store space across our portfolio, we have submitted a planning application for a change of use to the House of Fraser store at the Oracle.

"If approved, this would give us the flexibility to introduce new leisure and restaurant options and bring new brands to the town, should we wish to do so. At this stage, we are considering all options for the future of the store”.

BerkshireLive has contacted House of Fraser for comment.

The plans for the store in Reading, Berkshire, can be found here.