An Indian restaurant in Woodley could significantly increase the amount of customers it serves if an expansion plan is approved.

The Jalpari restaurant has built a reputation for serving up delicious dishes from the Indian Subcontinent from its base at the Loddon Vale Shopping Centre.

Now,  the restaurateurs have applied to expand into a neighbouring unit.

The plan would allow Jalpari to retain the existing eating area, which has 22 seats, but also have an expanded dining area, made up of 13 tables for four guests each.

That would increase the capacity to approximately 74 guests, an increase of 54.

The elevation and floorplans for the Jalpari Indian restaurant to expand.The elevation and floorplans for the Jalpari Indian restaurant to expand. (Image: Greg Farrell)

The plan was discussed at Woodley Town Council's planning & community committee meeting on Tuesday, August 27.

Councillor Janet Sartorel (Conservative, Loddon South) said: "They are so successful, parking is no problem, it's needed to bring life to that area."

Meanwhile, cllr Carol Jewell (Liberal Democrats, South Lake South) wanted it noted that smells from the restaurant should be dealt with properly.

Cllr Keith Baker (Conservative, Coronation East) quipped that 'people love' the smell of food. Cllr Conservative (Coronation Central) added: "Sometimes walking past an Indian restaurant the smell is absolutely lovely!"

Ultimately, the plan was supported, with cllr Jewell's concern about odour acknowledged.

READ MORE: Owner of Jalpari thanks customers after winning national restaurant award 

The town council is only an advisory body. The planning authority Wokingham Borough Council will determine the application.

You can view the plan by typing reference 241714 into the borough council's planning portal.

The London Vale Shopping Centre serves the Sandford neighbourhood of the town. It also contains a Tesco Express, a Pizza Hut, a pharmacy and Woodley Baptist Church.