THE future of Stockport town centre’s prestigious Lamborghini dealership is under threat as developers seek to turn it into flats.

A planning application for 65 apartments mixed with shops, on Edward Street, from Quorum Developments, goes before a Council committee tomorrow (July 17) recommended for approval.

The site is one of only four sales outlets in the UK belonging to the high-powered sports car makers - and has attracted celebrity clients including former Atomic Kitten Kerry Katona.

And a spokesman for Lamborghini says that, once its current lease expires, if development was to go ahead the company could move out of the borough entirely.

He said: "We would look at all options and can’t guarantee we would stay in Stockport. We would remain in the Manchester region and find alternative premises.  The landlord is entitled to apply for planning permission for a change of use of the site."

Original plans from Quorum Developments for a seven-storey block brought an 87-signature petition from nearby residents objecting on grounds of loss of privacy, highway safety and insufficient play facilities. But new proposals for a five-storey scheme have seen no complaints made.

Although Lamborghini bosses have a lease for the premises, once it runs out the decision on whether the car showroom can stay will be out of their hands.

The spokesman was unable to confirm how long was left on the lease.

A Tame Valley Area Committee debated the proposal earlier this month and gave it the thumbs down, but council officers have recommended it for approval.

A council spokesman said: "The proposal will provide a good quality mixed use redevelopment of the site. In addition the development will provide an attractive landmark building."