A new Greggs could be opened outside Royal Stoke University Hospital if a planning application is approved. 

The company Sodexo, which already manages retail and catering facilities in the hospital, has submitted an application to install a new fast-food outlet on land currently used as an NHS staff rest area. 

The proposed outlet would be open throughout the week and could create openings the equivalent of nine full-time employees. 

The planning application said: "The proposed outlet aims to enhance the food and beverage offer available to hospital staff, patients, and visitors by providing a convenient, affordable, and balanced range of hot and cold snacks, including healthy menuoptions consistent with the NHS Healthier Food Framework.

"There is a clear demonstrated demand for additional food and beverage provision within the hospital grounds." 

The application also explained that a recent survey conducted by Sodexo Health & Care UK of approximately 400 hospital staff identified that 65 per cent specifically requested improved food outlet facilities. 

The survey also revealed that Greggs was the most frequently preferred option. 

Stoke-on-Trent City Council planning officers have yet to make a decision on the application. 

To view the full application, visit the Stoke-on-Trent City Council website here.