A brewery has announced plans to build a pub and restaurant complex, creating up to 75 jobs.

The development by Marston's could be the first purpose-built pub in Market Harborough for almost 100 years.

Four pubs and two clubs in the town have closed in the past two years.

A Marston's spokesman said: "This presents an exciting opportunity for us.

"Market Harborough is a fantastic location. We're confident our pub restaurant will be an asset to the town."

The company has submitted a planning application to operate the pub and restaurant with a children's play area at Peaker Park, in Rockingham Road.

The brewer wants it to open until midnight during the week and until 1am on Friday and Saturday.

It would employ 20 people full-time and up to 55 part-time.

Harborough Independent Retailers Association spokesman Malcolm Lever-Jones said: "Harborough needs a family-friendly pub where groups can go for reasonably-priced meals. I am sure such a business would attract people into the town, which would benefit the viability of the town centre."

Marston's, of Wolverhampton, closed the historic Peacock Inn in the town centre over a year ago. It has been transformed into a Pizza Express restaurant.

Three other town pubs – the Welland Lodge, White Lion and Union Inn – have also closed, along with both the United Trades and Labour Club and the Market Harborough Working Men's Club.

Campaign for Real Ale spokesman Keith Williams said: "We welcome a pub opening which serves real ale, especially when so many pubs are closing because of cheap supermarket alcohol and the credit crunch."

County councillor Sarah Hill said: "I am surprised that a brewery is looking to build a pub at this time. It must think it will be successful.

"Welland Lodge, a similar style of public house catering for families, which was on the other side of the town, closed despite a number of re-launches."

People can make comments on the licensing application by contacting Harborough District Council before August 8. A decision is expected by the end of the summer.