Screwfix targets Dingwall opening with bid for storage and distribution warehouse with sales counter
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THE national building supply company Screwfix is hoping to open an outlet in Dingwall bringing 12 jobs, four of which it says would be full-time.
Screwfix Direct Ltd has applied to Highland Council for planning permission to change the former Discount Carpets on Dochcarty Road to a storage and distribution warehouse, and this is currently under consideration.
The nearest Screwfix is currently in Inverness.
As with their other stores, the Dingwall operation will include counter sales aimed at local building companies, and selling over the internet and telephone via a catalogue.
In addition to the trade counter, there would be a separate customer collection point for registered Trade Plus account holders. This area is only accessible to registered trades people ordering building products on a regular basis in high quantities and would not be open to general trade customers.
Some structural changes are proposed, such as a new aluminium double leaf glazed entrance door, removing the existing roller shutter and replacing with new electric roller shutter, and boarding out around 16 windows which will be "obscured" with Dipond panels.
The main footprint and bulk of the existing building is to be unaltered by the proposals with the principal changes made are in order to refurbish the building in line with the Screwfix corporate branding and business needs.
Agents for Screwfix in a report to planners said they do not consider that covering the existing windows will have a detrimental impact on the visual appearance of the building and and will ensure the security of the premises.
A new entrance will be created along the front elevation.
Opening hours will be between 7am – 8pm Monday to Friday (including bank holidays), 7am – 6.pm on Saturdays and 9am – 4pm on Sundays.
An average of three HGV movements per week is envisaged and the company does not consider its operation will contribute to traffic congestion or parking problems either in the immediate vicinity of the site or on the wider highway network.
Given that the immediate surrounding area is primarily characterised by a mix of industrial, commercial and residential uses, it is not considered that the proposals detract from the environment or amenities of the area, said the applicant's statement.
