PLANS have been submitted to split a former car parts retail unit in Newton Abbot.

The prominent commercial site at 128 to 130 Queen Street was previously car parts retailer Motormart but now a planning application to Teignbridge Council is proposing to sub-divide the premises into two units, one of which will become a launderette.

The application is to divide the premises with alterations to the front and installation of new shopfronts and replacement signage.

A planning statement with the application said: ‘The application site comprises a mixed-use building occupying two historic addresses within Newton Abbot town centre.

‘The ground floor has most recently operated as a single commercial unit as a car parts retailer, with residential accommodation occupying the upper floor.

‘The proposal seeks to reinstate the historic arrangement of two separate commercial units at ground floor level, creating opportunities for independent occupation and supporting the continued vitality and economic activity of the town centre.’

The existing front of the building is the combined occupation of two addresses as a single commercial unit with two access entrance doors.

The proposal includes sub-dividing the existing ground floor into two separate commercial units and the installation of new independent shopfronts to serve each unit.

This would create 128 Queen Street as a flexible commercial unit as there is no future occupier secured yet.

But 130 Queen Street would operate as a commercial launderette with the premises providing both self-service laundry facilities and a service-wash operation.

Customers will either do their laundry on-site or leave items for processing by staff.

Completed laundry will be collected from secure lockers accessed using digital access codes or QR-based systems.

The planning statement continues: ‘The proposal maintains active commercial uses at ground floor level and therefore supports the continued economic function of Queen Street.

‘The proposal does not result in the loss of commercial floorspace. Instead, it improves the adaptability and attractiveness of the premises for future occupation.

‘The proposed shopfront alterations have been designed to provide two distinct commercial frontages that reflect the reinstatement of the building's historic dual-address arrangement.

‘The new shopfronts will introduce a more active and attractive street presence along Queen Street.

‘Overall, the proposals represent a visual enhancement to the existing frontage and will contribute positively to the character and appearance of the street scene.

‘The development will maintain active commercial uses within Newton Abbot town centre, improve flexibility for future occupation, enhance the appearance of the building and provide a useful community service through the introduction of a launderette.’