Plans have been submitted to build 20 flats and shops on an “awful looking” derelict former car wash.

The site in Northdown Road, Cliftonville, has been eyed up for homes after sitting empty for several years.

One councillor says he and his colleagues would “love to see the patch of land developed” as it has been a hot spot for fly-tipping in the up-and-coming area.

However concerns over parking have been raised, since no spaces are planned for the potential residents.

The development consists of 13 one-bed and seven two-bed homes, with two stores on the ground floor.

Documents lodged by architects 5373 Design and Planning read: “This building at least does no harm to the existing character or appearance and at best can enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area.

“The site is identified as having a negative impact on the local vicinity.”

Councillor for the ward Alan Currie revealed the former car wash – which is on the corner with Athelstan Road – is often used by fly-tippers.

The Labour representative explained: “I know local people would like to see that spot developed, it’s been empty for a long time and a lot of people would consider it an eyesore.

“It’s been a problem with fly-tipping, so aesthetically it looks pretty awful for businesses and people living in the area.

“But it has to be the right sort of building which is an asset to the road and the community.

“As councillors, we would love to see it developed sympathetically.”

He added that Northdown Road is an up-and-coming area, partly due to Cliftonville being voted the UK’s trendiest town last year.

Cllr Currie pointed out that the former car wash is not the nicest part of the street, and he thinks the right sort of development would be supported by the council and residents alike.

He continued, “It's a shame there isn't any parking - there are spaces for bicycles but we will have to look at whether that's practical.

“It looks like they are aiming it at people who don’t have cars, but in the real world most of those living there will.”

The site was once a petrol station but has been a hand car wash and service garage more recently.

It has been abandoned for at least two years and has been the target of vandals as well as fly- tippers.