Kingston's landmark Market House could become a high-end restaurant or shop bringing £150,000 in annual rent to the borough's coffers.

Surrey Comet:

Iconic: Market House in the ancient market place

Kingston Council hopes "a suitably impressive brand" will swoop in to take over the "iconic" Grade II-listed building, built in 1838 in the heart of the town, according to a promotional brochure.

Whoever moves in must ensure the conversion is sensitive to the building's character, the authority said.

Market House is currently home to dozens of vintage and craft sellers, as well as tea rooms. It was operated by Kingstonfirst between 2010 and 2014, before the council took back the reins. From 2000 to 2004 the ground floor was used as a cafe.

Nicky French, from Wow Vintage and Crafts, said: "We took it on because there's nowhere in Kingston for craft people to sell.

"It's the ideal location. It's all run by local crafts people and small, independent vintage traders. We've got about 40 small businesses.

"We would definitely like to stay. I had been trying to get hold of it for about two years. I've always seen the building as somewhere that should be open seven days a week and slightly different to any other shopping experience.

"It should be part of the community - it's so beautiful inside."

Councillor David Cunningham, cabinet member for regeneration, said in a statement: "There is currently a short-term lease in place for its use, and the council is seeking to find a long-term tenant.

"We have received applications from a number of interested parties and are working towards securing a contract. Any decision made will be subject to formal committee, and potentially planning permission, approval."

Liberal Democrat Grove councillor Jon Tolley said: "It's the perfect place for a high-brow restaurant. I don't know what they're going to do with it otherwise."