An eyesore former car dealership could be given a new lease of life, as plans for a new retail park have been revealed.

A proposal to transform the disused and derelict Vauxhall Car dealership off Passfield Way, Peterlee into a new local convenience retail cluster has been submitted to Durham County Council.

High-profile tenants already signed up for the development include national retailers Sainsbury’s, Tanning Shop, Cooplands bakery, and Domino’s Pizza. Further units are still available to let.

It is hoped the development would create at least 100 sustainable full and part-time jobs, providing a timely boost to the local economy, and has been outlined as an example of levelling up the area.

The Northern Echo: A proposal to transform the disused and derelict Vauxhall Car dealership off Passfield Way, Peterlee into a new local convenience retail cluster has been submittedA proposal to transform the disused and derelict Vauxhall Car dealership off Passfield Way, Peterlee into a new local convenience retail cluster has been submitted (Image: The Northern Echo)

Neil Creeney, of applicant Almscliffe-Dhesi Group, said: “If approved, this exciting development should be completed by Christmas 2023 and would make shopping much more convenient for local residents.

“The development is within walking distance for many and including 68 car parking spaces, with a provision of accessible bays, and eight electric vehicle charging points.

“We have been absolutely delighted with the response to our pre-application consultation and we would like to take this opportunity to thank respondents for providing us with supportive comments. We’re really encouraged by the response that we received with more than 80 per cent of respondents in favour of the plans.

“It is clear that many local people would like to see the site developed and that there is definitely a demand for the proposed facilities in the area.”

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An early image of the proposal shows the Sainsbury’s Local store would occupy the largest unit.

Patrick Dunne, Sainsbury’s Property Director, added: “We carefully design and fit out our stores to suit the needs of local customers and we hope a new store for Peterlee will help nearby residents do more of their shopping closer to home.”

“We plan to build on the success of our existing store to the north of this development, which will continue to serve the local community alongside the new store once it opens.”