One of Southport’ s oldest family businesses which operated as a car showroom could become a new cafe and shop.
A planning application has been submitted to convert the former Oldfields Automobiles, at 2A Queens Road.
The premises closed for the last time in October 2021 after a century of trading, and has been empty since then.
A submission has now been sent to Sefton Council by Mr Z. Kazi seeking to change the use from a car showroom to a cafe and shop.
The scheme would include the installation of a new shop front with shutters to the front and side elevations, and alterations to one of the windows to the rear.
The site is 738 square metres in size with 451 square metres (4,903 sq ft) gross of internal floorspace.
The proposed opening hours are not yet known.
The plans submitted to Sefton Council include one room with a stock room, fridge spaces, shelves, a butcher’s counter, a freezer unit and a meat freezer.
Another room contains a cafe counter, kitchen, seating area, men’s, women’s and disabled toilets, and an office.
In August 2022, David, Peter, Steven and Stephanie of Oldfields Automobiles Ltd. said: “After over 100 years of trading and many years of service to the people of Southport and surrounding areas, we, as a family have finally decided to retire and as such from 31st October 2022 Oldfields Automobiles will no longer be trading.
“May we thank you for all your custom and the support of our business over the years.”
The news led to huge support from customers – over many years – on social media.
Viv Connolly said: “Wishing you all a long, happy, healthy retirement.”
Chris Hesketh said: “Brilliant service to the town as a very trusted car sales garage. Enjoy your retirement.”
Liza Smallman said: “You’ll be remembered by all the Southport Visiter motors girls. We all miss those car lists!”
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