A PLANNING application has been submitted to demolish the former Lloyds Garage in Stourport to provide a gateway to the town's canal basins.

The plan will open up Stourport town centre and create views and pedestrian access from Bridge Street through to the canal basin area.

The application is a step forward for Stourport's regeneration plans and will help to make way for the proposed £7 million James Brindley Wharf redevelopment.

Conservative councillor John Campion, leader of Wyre Forest District Council, said: “This site is part of a key regeneration opportunity in the town. To make sure the development of the area can move forward the currently vacant garage buildings need to be demolished.

"Opening up of the area and giving access through to the basins has always been the council’s primary objective, the basins are the jewel in Stourport but many people don’t know they are there.

"Demolishing the existing poor quality building is the first step in redeveloping the site and the council hopes that it will help create further interest in the site. It will give people an appreciation of the visual link between Bridge Street and the basins, enhancing the area and revealing its special character. ”

The application also states that a temporary car park would be created on the site which would provide 34 more short stay spaces in the town while redevelopment plans are finalised.

Mr Campion added: "We are working hard to progress the Bridge Street Basins Link redevelopment and while this is being progressed, it is felt that a temporary car park would make good use of the site.”

Revamped James Brindley Wharf plans, announced in March, by Clive Fletcher Developments, Thomas Vale Construction and estate agents Walton and Hipkiss included proposals for 10 apartments, six town houses, four shops with a mix of food and retail outlets, a heritage museum and a 26,000 sq ft “health and wellbeing centre”, which the current York Street Medical Practice would move into.

Independent councillor Helen Dyke, members champion for centres, said: "The current economic climate means that bringing forward regeneration plans are increasingly difficult. This application is intended to be the first phase of the Bridge Street Basins Link, which is planned to provide a mixed use commercial, retail and residential development to the town.

"We welcome projects which will help with the plans to improve the town centre.”

The proposal to demolish Lloyds Garage is due to be considered by the council’s planning committee in February.