A BUSINESS selling motor parts is set to move into premises in Taunton that have been vacant for five years.

Conditional planning permission has been granted for the company to convert the former Taunton Motor Company site in Priory Bridge Road.

The change of use permission granted by Somerset Council to James Holyday, of Tauntfield Ltd, will enable the business to sell fit and store vehicle exhausts, tyres, brakes and batteries along with servicing, repairs and sale of vehicles with associated accessories, services and MOT testing centre.

The location has been vacant since 2018, when the Volvo franchise was relocated to Priory Way.

The application for planning permission submitted to the council said: "The proposed use is very similar to the lawful and previous use which was a car showroom with an ancillary workshop and MOT testing centre.

"Planning permission is required because car sales will no longer be the primary use of the site.

"The proposed uses will apply to both the existing buildings on site and the forecourt area."

There are no physical alterations proposed to the site other than the repair and restoration of the buildings and the site in general "to improve its appearance".

The two vehicular accesses will be retained, while 12 car parking spaces will be provided.

The statement adds: "The proposed use of the site is very similar in nature to the lawful use with the exception that car sales will no longer be the primary use, albeit an element of this use will be retained.

"The change of use will bring the site back into active use, which will have associated economic benefits for the local area including job creation.

"The appearance of the site will be improved having become rundown since it has been vacant, the buildings will be repaired and restored where required, which will improve the overall street scene."