PLANS to convert a former Woolworths store into flats and retail space have been unveiled in a Gwynedd town centre.

After shutting in the early 1990s, Blaenau Ffestiniog’s store was subsequently turned into a furniture and carpet warehouse which then closed,  remaining dormant for several years.

But new plans submitted to Gwynedd Council would see partial demolition of the site, at number 30 on the town’s high street, to make way for a new retail unit and parking spaces as well as four flats, with one designated for affordable housing.

The application submitted by Mr Llywarch Davies described the site as “no longer needed as a single large retail space,” but would provide “a valuable contribution in addressing the shortfall of housing supply in the county.”

The planning statement added: “The proposal is to re–develop the existing retail unit to provide a smaller retail unit and 4 no residential units. The site is entirely within the development boundary of Blaenau Ffestiniog.

“This is required as there is no demand for a retail unit of this size in this location.

“The proposed design would enhance the character of the High Street and also respect the amenities and privacy of its neighbours and provide an attractive development that would integrate successfully into its setting.

“The development would also have a modest and entirely acceptable impact upon ecology and biodiversity, the operation and safety of the highway, general amenities, and all other considerations of material importance.

 “As a result, it fully complies with all National & Local Planning Policy. Therefore, there should be no barrier to the approval of this application.”

It is expected that Gwynedd Council’s planning department will consider the application over the coming months.