A SHOP that has served Tranent for more than 40 years could be demolished, with a new business set to be built in its place.

Jimmy Thomson ran The Wee Shop, on the town’s Blawearie Road, for 38 years before selling up in October to allow him to spend more time with his grandchildren.

Now, plans are with East Lothian Council for the building to be torn down, with a new two-storey building created in its place.

The ground floor could once again host a shop, with a one-bedroom flat created above.

Mike Falconer, chairman of Tranent and Elphinstone Community Council, was keen to see retail premises remain in the area.

He said: “I would be keen to see the shop retained there.

“The building itself is not fit for purpose as a modern shop. It is a breeze block building and it was always a tiny little place.

“If it is going to be a more modern, open shop I would be in favour.

“I don’t see any problem with somebody living above it, whether manager or not.

“My main concern would be to retain the shop.”

A document included with Deepak Kumar’s planning application explains the plans for the site and the reasoning behind replacing the existing building.

It reads: “The convenience store has served the local community well over decades; however, it is in need of substantial repair and maintenance, and in need of increased retail sales and stores for modern use.”

Drawings for the new building, near East Lothian Co-operative Bowling Club, show a lounge, kitchen and shower room alongside the bedroom on the first floor.

The planning and design statement notes: “Being used primarily but not exclusively for the manager of the store, the flat above will also provide security over the premises.

“The proposal follows a similar footprint as existing with modest flat roof extended areas to the convenience store below.”

An additional parking space is also planned for the site to serve the flat above.

Last year, the Courier reported that Mr Thomson had sold the business to Mr Kumar, who was moving from Wales to take over and run the business.

At the time, Jimmy’s daughter Laura told the Courier: “That’s dad fully stepped away now and I think he’s just getting accustomed to being retired.

“I think his body clock is still set to going to bed early and getting up early, but we’ll see how long that lasts!

“I think the new owner is very well liked so far, my dad gave him some advice on how we’ve done things over the years but ultimately it is his business now.

“I think a lot of people will miss seeing him in the shop, but hopefully the new owner can continue it on.”

A decision on the application is expected by the end of next