APPROVAL has been given to convert an old car showroom into shops.

The Monty Smith garage in Windsor Road has been left abandoned for years but will soon be converted for retail use.

This week, the Penarth Times' Your High Street: Use It or Lose It campaign focuses on the conversion of the old car showroom into retail units which will see more shops added further down Penarth's main shopping street

The campaign was launched to promote the use of local shops and explore issues facing local traders and shoppers.

The application for the Monty Smith garage was made by PMG 3 Ltd.

In 2016, an application to demolish the building was made but this was not carried out.

This is a certificate of lawfulness application which is a separate process to a full planning application.

As the site was previously used as a car showroom, it is possible to convert its use to a retail outlet without further planning permission.

Penarth resident, Des Lloyd believes it is a "missed opportunity" as he would prefer to see it used for parking.

"For decades one of the problems facing Penarth has been parking," he said.

"Many solutions have been debated from building over the railway line cutting to demolishing the old post office on Albert Road and replacing that with a multi story car park, all of them have had supporters and detractors.

"In the case of the Monty Smiths site, it's in a good position for a car park close to shops and restaurants and although I don't drive as someone with mobility problems, I appreciate the location for others.

"Some opponents to this have suggested that there could be traffic management issues, but I have to think a car park there would be of real benefit," he said.

*Our Your High Street: Use It or Lose It has already featured businesses, shoppers and politicians on the importance of our town's high streets.

We are always keen to hear from others with ideas on how to promote and improve them.

Get in touch with our reporter, Anthony Lewis, on 07760215094 or email alewis@penarthtimes.co.uk.