PLANS have been tabled to convert a former car dealership into a Greggs bakery.

The national retailer wants to open a shop along the A348, to the east of the county. 

A change of use application has been submitted to Dorset Council for the car salesroom on Ringwood Road, Longham, which is surplus to requirements after Lamwell Motor Company moved its business to solely the neighbouring site.

Greggs plans to carry out an overhaul of the inside of the building, while also making external alterations.

The bakery would have 11 covers inside and space for around 32 seats outside with large umbrellas provided.

A planning statement submitted as part of the application says: “Greggs Plc has a requirement for a new bakery in this location to meet the needs of local people and motorists travelling along Ringwood Road (A348).”

The shop would be open from 5am to 11pm seven days a week.

The statement added: “It is envisaged that a Greggs of this size will generate a net increase of nine jobs, approximately one full time positions and eight part time opportunities.

“These jobs will be recruited locally and will contribute to the provision of jobs within this locality.”

The application is currently being assessed by council planners, with comments welcome up until February 20.

Ferndown resident Gary Dale has submitted an objection to the proposal, citing ongoing traffic issues in Ringwood Road.

“The applicant has chosen a high-volume traffic location, but in doing so is creating more issues through the need to frequently pause the flow of traffic to let vehicles in and out of what is a fast food site,” Mr Dale said.

“This impact is much greater than a car dealership, nursing home or even pub, which already exist nearby.

“This is also assuming that all vehicles will use the car park and not just park on the road itself, further exacerbating traffic flow on a trunk road which sees large lorries etc.”

Mr Dale also said he believed the planned exterior was “incongruous”, deliveries would create problems and early opening hours would be anti-social.