THE owners of a garage that would be demolished if plans for a block of 18 flats are approved have spoken out over the issue.

Dave Wells Properties has filed proposals to build a three-storey building at Bridle Crescent off the Iford roundabout which is currently the home of the Car-Link used car dealership.

In a statement addressed to the Daily Echo the company's owner Alan Fisher said: "We understand there has been a recent planning application by our landlord DWP housing with whom we have a good working relationship and are aware the application is part of their business plans for the future with no effect on our occupation.

"DWP has made an application in accordance with their long term business plans for the future of the site when our lease expires and this is fully understood and agreed by both parties.

"We would like to assure our customers past, present and future along with our suppliers and business associates of our continued intention to carry out our trade and business for the remaining seven years in accordance with our lease tenancy.

"We have established a successful business supplying great used cars both locally and nationally and will continue to build on that success during that seven year period."

At the time of going to press, the online application for the proposed development had received 39 objections and two comments from neighbouring residents and business owners.