A NEW Co-op store could be built at a former car sales site in Ipplepen, allowing the village’s existing shop to relocate from Fore Street.

A planning application - reference 26/01433/FUL - has been submitted to Teignbridge Council proposing the demolition of the existing buildings at Parkfield Service Station, pictured, and their replacement with a new Co-op store.

The application, submitted by Vision Retail (Southern) Ltd, would allow the existing shop on Fore Street to relocate.

Teignbridge Council is expected to decide on the plans by November 16.

Planning documents say the current Co-op is ‘no longer fit for purpose’, with the size of the shop limiting the amount of shelf space and the range of products it can offer.

The application claims this is causing customers to shop at larger stores elsewhere.

The Co-op says it wants to remain in Ipplepen, but argues there are no suitable premises within the village centre that could provide the space needed for a larger shop, back-of-house facilities and dedicated parking.

The proposed replacement store would have 12 parking spaces, including one disabled-accessible space, as well as cycle parking for eight bicycles.

The applicants say the new store would better meet the community’s daily and top-up shopping needs, while also serving the 100 new homes planned under Ipplepen’s neighbourhood plan.

The proposed development would be within the village’s settlement boundary and would make use of previously developed land.

The Parkfield site currently contains three buildings, including an office formerly used by a motor sales business, accommodation occupied by the former business owner and a vehicle repair garage.

The motor sales business has since ceased following the retirement of its owner.

If approved, the plans would therefore see the site given a new commercial use, while allowing the Co-op to remain in Ipplepen at a new location.

Residents can view the application and submit comments through Teignbridge Council’s planning portal by searching for 26/01433/FUL.