KFC in Carlisle is set to close its doors, after 15 years in the city centre.

The fast food restaurant, which occupies a two storey unit in The Lanes Shopping Centre, has come to the end of its lease.

The News & Star understands staff were given the news yesterday.

David Jackson, commercial director of The Lanes Shopping Centre, said bosses decided not to renew their lease in light of plans to develop a drive-through in another part of the city.

He said: "Following a review of their business model they have decided not to renew and will close in October.

"A key part of this decision is the fact that they were recently successful in securing planning permission from the city council for an out of town site.

"It is always disappointing to see a longstanding retail tenant leave the Lanes central site, and we will now focus our attention on replacing them with another restaurant offer."

The fried chicken giant, which arrived in Carlisle in 2002, also has branches in Workington, Penrith, Barrow and Gretna.

Plans were approved in February for a drive-through restaurant on the site of the old Harraby Green Service Station in London Road.

The £1.8m development is anticipated to create 15 full time and 30 part time jobs, though it is unclear how staff at the city centre branch will be affected.

Meanwhile McDonald's also has plans for its second Carlisle drive-through in London Road and Costa was also granted permission for an outlet there.

KFC's exit will leave another empty unit in The Lanes Shopping Centre but Mr Jackson is confident its prominent spot on Lowther Street can be filled.

He added: "Following the recent openings of Seasons and Oak Tree Animals Charity we are pleased to announce the opening Hawkin's Bazaar this week plus Calendar Club later in the month with two other lettings imminent."

The News & Star contacted KFC but got no response.