THE Players Cafe - the Sheffield bar which once attracted top celebrity names in showbiz and sport - is set to be turned into offices.
Next week councillors are due to approve plans to convert the Attercliffe Common venue into a workplace.
The £2.5 million bar and restaurant, next to Hallam FM Arena, opened in a blaze of glory in 1997.
But its bar, lighting, video screens and kitc
hen equipment look likely to be ripped out to make way for desks and computers.
Sheffield advertising and marketing firm Dig For Fire, currently based at Broomhill, wants to alter parts of the building to transform it into a modern office complex for 90 members of staff.
Around £50,000 will be invested in the building, which has been vacant for almost three years, to restore its original appearance.
The Grade II listed building dates back to 1874 and was the former Carbrook school.
In a report to councillors, planners say: "The significant investment in the listed building is to be welcomed.
"The scheme will preserve the character of the building."
It is a far cry from the heady days when the bar was a glittering venue for famous faces.
Based on the Planet Hollywood chain, The Players Cafe burst on to the scene with film and sporting memorabilia and American style menus.
Its celebrity backers included members of Def Leppard and the Sheffield Steelers.
It reached its height in 1998 when it hosted the Full Monty film premiere - but a year later the bar went into receivership and was put up for sale.
There was a bid to revive it but by the end of 2001 it closed for good.
Councillors will discuss the office plans at a meeting on Monday.
