ONE of the UK’s most successful food chains is opening a new branch in Hampshire.

Wagamama’s Japanese restaurants have been sweeping the nation and now Jewry Street in Winchester will be their new home in the district.

Versant Development have applied for planning permission for a change of use of Century House – a Winchester Family Church site – and want to turn the site into a restaurant across the lower and ground floors, along with four apartments.

It is understood the restaurant would be 5,000 sq feet, seating around 100 people.

Versant are still finalising details with Wagamama, but subject to planning permission expected in mid-October, they could be serving up hot noodles in the city by the start of next year.