AFTER three years on the market, a proposed development of ten flats with shops underneath in Western Road, Launceston, is set to lose the retail element if county planners give the revised plans the thumbs up.

A planning application has been submitted for the provision of vehicular access and parking to serve the approved and commenced development of ten flats on land south of 5 Western Road for Mr I Scott.

The application was discussed by Launceston Town Council’s planning committee on Thursday, November 15 as part of the consultation process.

In the public representation section, planning agent Peter Wonnacott addressed councillors and explained the lack of interest in the shops.

He said the development had been on the market for three years, and there have been three or four companies interested, but they don’t want the shops.

“We’ve had no interest in the shops bit. What they do want is parking for the flats.”

The revised application has replaced the shops with car parking for the residential flats above.

Mr Wonnacott added: “There used to be garages there. Drop kerbs are still outside on the pavement there.”

In discussing the application, Cllr Rob Tremain said: “When this came up we supported this original development. We were really looking forward to the retail space extending down Western Road. We were told earlier tonight no-one is interested in taking it up.”

Mayor, Cllr Margaret Young added: “It’s unrealistic to think that we don’t need cars in Launceston. The bus service, we don’t have any trains, community network was a discussion point. If flats are being built, it’s an assumption that they will have cars. I propose we say yes to parking for this.”

Cllr Brian Hogan said: “It’s not dissimilar to what we’ve got at Dockey. It’s a secure development of flats by the look of it.”

Cllr Jane Nancarrow continued: “I feel very much the same way. We have got empty retail spaces in the town square. It’s a great shame but we do need parking.”

A proposal was made by Cllr Young to approve the plans. She added: “It’s now barren land and please fill it I say.”

All councillors voted in favour.

The final decision is expected to be made by Cornwall Council plans committee.