Vertu Motors has applied for planning permission to replace a 40-year-old Ford dealership near Durham with a new one.

It would like to demolish existing showrooms and offices at its Bristol Street Motors site in High Street, Carrville, and build a new base and refurbish its garage workshops.

The dealership has had a presence on Carrville’s High Street for more than 40 years through several operators, with the buildings left largely unchanged, according to the Sunderland Echo.

Vertu bought the site two years ago and says it wants to improve it, as well as the working conditions for its staff.

In the application, it says: “After over 40 years on the site, the proposed refurbishment and new build works will provide an enjoyable and safe working environment and strong economic presence in Carrville and County Durham.”