A PETROL station and convenience store in Poole could be flattened to make way for a 24-hour Asda shop.

Plans have been submitted to redevelop the site of the Esso garage in Ashley Road, Parkstone.

Owners EG Group have tabled the application to decommission the existing petrol filling station and demolish all the structures on the site.

The proposal would see a 250 metres-squared premises built to provide a store that is “fit for purpose as a top-up function rather than act as a comprehensive convenience store”.

A planning and retail statement submitted by planning consultants Asbri said the petrol station is “underperforming” and the owners are seeking an alternative use for the site “in order to safeguard its positive use”.

“The decommissioning of petrol filling stations is a time-consuming cost hungry process,” the statement said.

“There are few prospective uses which would enable the viable redevelopment to be undertaken and a positive use brought forward at such sites.

“The proposed development is therefore considered a positive use of a potentially long-term vacant site, which will result in a series of benefits for the local community, in addition to economic benefits by way of job creation.”

Bournemouth Echo: The petrol station in Ashley RoadThe petrol station in Ashley Road

The proposed retail unit would create jobs for around eight people.

Asbri’s statement said the planned development had the potential to boost the overall performance of the Ashley Road district centre through linked trips with existing operators and the overall ancillary role the unit will play.

“In conclusion, the proposed development will result in a series of benefits including significant economic benefits, the statement added.

“It is therefore respectfully requested that the council grant planning approval for the proposed development.”

The planning application has been submitted to BCP Council.

Residents can view the proposal on the local authority’s planning portal and submit comments on the scheme up to March 16.