National Tyres and Autocare in Coalville has been given the go-ahead to operate an MOT testing area.

The Ashby Road-based company applied to North West Leicestershire District Council in December for the change of use.

As well as the sale and fitting of tyres, batteries and accessories. MOTs will now be available following Halfords taking over NTS just over a year ago.

A supporting statement with the planning application said: "Halfords is now intending to incorporate MOT testing as part of the services provided at the NTS sites.

"In order to do so, a licence is required from the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency."

It added: "The site has been operated by NTS since at least 1987.

"Originally the site consisted of a converted Victorian dwelling house and was extended in 1991.

"I have a record of planning permission dated 24 August 1966 which granted consent for the use of premises for the sale and fitting of tyres, batteries and accessories and the formation of a vehicular access."

Another statement reads: "The Property is currently used for the storage, sale and fitting of motor vehicle tyres, batteries, brakes, shock absorbers, exhaust and other automotive products; together with the carrying out of oil and oil filter changes, car safety checks, servicing and repair.

"My client intends to operate a single bay for the purposes of MOT testing.

"The current use of the Property would continue.

"The MOT testing would not form a separate or standalone operation of the Property. There would be no change to the external appearance of the building."