A new Timpson’s pod could be installed at the island’s largest Tesco store under plans submitted for approval.

The supermarket chain has applied for planning permission to build the pod at its Lake Road store in Douglas.

Tesco and Timpson’s formed a partnership several years ago, leading to small Timpson outlets opening at Tesco stores across the UK.

Lake Road already has a Timpson’s self-service key-cutting facility, but the proposed pod would offer additional services, including dry cleaning, shoe repairs and engraving.

Unlike the existing self-service facility, the new pod would employ dedicated staff.

The planning statement says: ‘The unit is part of a joint venture by Timpson Ltd and Tesco Stores Ltd to offer the convenience of providing Timpson's services (dry cleaning, shoe repair, key cutting, jewellery repairs, watch repairs, engraving, etc) within the Tesco grounds.

‘Dry cleaning will not be undertaken within the kiosk as items to be cleaned would simply be dropped off and collected at the kiosk.

‘The desire to provide a Timpson Pod as the Tesco site is part of Timpson’s current business plan to increase their portfolio nationwide, they currently have many such pods in similar locations across the UK.’

If approved, the pod would open from 9am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday, and from 10am to 4pm on Sundays.

The planning statement says Timpson would seek to recruit a full-time employee to staff the kiosk.

It adds: ‘It is the experience of Timpson’s that due to the nature and value of uses that they provide, they are not a destination store in their own right, and rely heavily on existing footfall to be viable. As such it is not expected to increase traffic to the site.

‘The Timpson’s retail pod will offer customers the convenience of providing Timpson’s services at their local superstore.’

The application will be considered by planners in due course.