Garage built in 1950s could become Co-op store

A 1950s garage building in Lincoln could be converted into a new Co-op under plans.

South Park Garage has operated as a motor workshop since it was built and later expanded into car and motorbike showrooms.

But The Other Bike Shop closed in 2021, followed by Top Car in 2025, and left the site on South Park Avenue empty.

The owner, local businessman Andrew Long, is hoping to convert the site into three separate convenience shops, with Lincolnshire Co-op amongst possible occupiers.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the plans have been submitted to the City of Lincoln Council by Long's company, Travel Sector Property Ltd.

The application stated the location was "less than ideal" for such businesses due to residential properties on Kingsway and the limited site facilities.

It also said finding another motor trader for the site is unlikely due to its size and location.

According to the plans, new shops would address the lack of them in the Sincil Bank area and prevent shoppers from having to cross the busy contraflow.

The applicant said Lincolnshire Co-operative Society and "other suitable tenants" have expressed interest in leasing the site if planning permission is approved.

Plans also state that, without commercial use, the building could deteriorate and "present a poor outlook in a very prominent city centre location".

The application is currently open for comment on the council's website.

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