A new car showroom and two flats could be built on Farmer Ward Road if plans are approved by Warwick District Council.

The application for the Bridge Works building includes a commercial unit which could be used for hiring, selling, or displaying motor vehicles or some "other appropriate services in a commercial, business or service" use.

The application says the plans will "diversify" the commercial offering of the property.

"The proposed commercial unit will provide a small affordable rentable commercial unit in a highly accessible location with the intention of supporting new and existing small businesses," it said. 

It added: "The applicant wishes to diversify the use of the Bridge Works, from a commercial point of view, whilst also providing two residential flats in a highly accessible area of Kenilworth where this type of housing is in short supply."

An artist's impression of the proposed works (image via Planning application)

Plans show that a single storey commercial unit would be built between the existing building, new structure and a boundary wall.

The flats would mimic the two that have already been built at the Bridge Works. 

However, town councillors have raised concerns about the amount of parking space available.

Speaking at the most recent Kenilworth Town Council planning meeting, Cllr John Dearing said: "They are proposing to put four parking spaces at the front of the premises. Presumably these would be allocated spaces for the new flats above. 

"But I think at the moment that is used for the employees to park their cars and for the commercial vehicles that visit those units. 

"They may allocate the spaces for the car, but then there is going to be a knock on effect as to where the employees park their cars.

While Cllr Michael Coker said: "The question of parking I think we should emphasise. Without any doubt it is becoming more and more of a problem throughout the town. 

He added: "It is noticeable that more and more roads are parked up all day long and there is very little spare space."

KTC did not object to the application but asked that the district council ensures the scheme complies with parking rules.