Plans to convert a Dundee newsagent into a residential property have been approved.

FMC Contracts Limited has now been granted permission to transform Mirza & Co on the city’s Arbroath Road into a three-bedroom home.

The development will see the newsagent and neighbouring disused premises (pictured above) turned into a flat.

Designed by architect Jon Frullani, the property will include a living room with a kitchen annexe, a utility room, small storage and a bathroom.

Though permission for a change of use has been granted it remains unclear just how long the newsagent will remain open.

Customers of Mirza & Co newsagent said they are “sad” to hear of the store’s demise after serving the local community for over 40 years.

‘It will be the end of an era’

June Barclay, 70, said her family has used the store throughout the time shopkeeper Khalid Mirza has run the business.

She said: “It will certainly be the end of an era when the shop closes.

“The family run business have always been wonderfully kind in delivering messages to my mother.

“My mum has been using the store for over 40 years, it will look strange seeing such a prominent shop going.

“I was aware of the plans to convert the store and the proposals certainly look quite nice.”

Local resident Dr Mahesh Mudhol says it will be sad to see Mr Mirza leaving the area when the time comes.

He said: “We’ve only moved to the area in the last six months but the store owner has been extremely nice.

“He has a great knowledge of the local area and has been assisting us since moving here.

“Morning until evening he has been standing in the shop serving the customers, it will be sad to see them go.”