PLANS for the future of a space left vacant by the closure of a national chain have been revealed.

Barrow's Topps Tiles in Walney Road closed in February 2020, with staff being made redundant.

Now plans have been put forward to allow the space to be turned into a donation centre and charity shop for the Salvation Army.

A statement making up the plans said: "Unit B is currently vacant following the departure of Topps Tiles last year.

"The applicant has agreed terms with the building owner for a new lease of the property and intends to operate a charity donation centre incorporating a retail charity shop.

"The larger out of town format of this type of property with on site parking enables us to receive donations of and sell larger items such as furniture and bulkier electrical goods as well as allowing external space for clothing banks to allow donations to be made outside of trading hours.

"The majority of the sales area will be given over to the sale of furniture, furnishings and other larger items which is permitted by the existing planning consent.

"However, part of the sales area will be allocated for the sale of smaller donated and second hand goods such as clothing, books, toys, DVDs and CDs."

Submitting the plans, the Salvation Army stressed the benefits of a donation centre, saying it would 'promote the recycling of clothing, furniture, electrical and other donated goods' which 'diverts the items in question from landfill having clear environmental and financial benefits'.

It would also opportunities and paid voluntary work for people in the area.

The tile retailer's Barrow outlet was one of 323 across the UK.

Topps Tiles opened its first store in 1963 in Sale, Manchester and then continued to open stores across the North West and the Midlands.