A neglected barge on the Thames could be restored to its former glory as a restaurant, if Kingston Council grants planning permission.

The Jesus College Barge, formerly belonging to its Oxford college namesake, and its mooring at Town End Pier in High Street would be restored following its partial sinking in 2015.

Turk Launches is behind the application. The company provides boat cruises, parties and dinners on the Thames in and around Kingston and Richmond, and the upgraded mooring would allow other boats to dock alongside the barge, and passengers to pass between the two.

The restaurant would be 50square metres and employ three full time and three part time employees, with proposed opening hours of 9am to 8pm seven days a week.

In its application, Turk Launches said: "The Jesus College Barge has a rich history and is a rare example of this type of vessel. The proposal seeks to restore the barge to its former glory and reinstate the original green and white paint associated with the prestigious Jesus College Oxford."

Elsewhere in its application, it said: "The barge is to undergo a restoration project which will provide a high quality facility and create a new riverside destination. It will significantly enhance the appearance of the site and surroundings, be sensitive to its historical and environmental location and respect the amenities of neighbours."