A new Travelodge in the heart of Newton Abbot could put the town on the map, councillors said this week.

Last week it was revealed that London-based Newmark Property Investments Ltd had submitted a bid to replace a derelict car dealership in Wolborough Street with a 61-bed budget hotel and retail units below.

The firm said it had developed a scheme that 'reflects the function of the building in a contemporary style of architecture whilst complementing the character of the area'.

With the drawings of the three-storey scheme laid out at the town hall on Tuesday, councillors found themselves generally supporting the plans, albeit with reservations.

Cllr Henry Cole was worried about the lack of parking.

'I just don't understand the Travelodge people building somewhere for no cars,' he said.

His colleague Cllr David Corney-Walker agreed, saying he was 'very concerned' about the matter.

He was also disappointed with the 'bland' design saying: 'I was hopeful that one of the gateways to the town could have had something much more of the 21st century.'

Cllr Keith Smith echoed the sentiment saying: 'This was a golden opportunity to create a landmark building and that we haven't got.'

Cllr David Howe, the mayor, said: 'Bring it on asap'.

He thought the design was 'not too bad' and said parking was a matter of commercial viability and if Travelodge felt it was not needed then that was a matter for them.

'This really puts Newton Abbot on the map,' he said.

Cllr Daphne Watts agreed. 'This is going to mean Newton Abbot becoming a destination in its own right,' she said.

With their concerns noted, together with a desire to see a resolution to the tricky problem of accessing the neighbouring Sun Court via the recently pedestrianised East Street and Wolborough Street, councillors recommended approval.

The matter will now be passed to Teignbridge Council planners for determination.