A BUCKLEY tattooist is hoping to get permission to turn his studio into three new homes.

The Leader reported earlier this month how plans to turn two units in Mold Road, Buckley, into homes had been lodged with Flintshire Council.

According to the documents, the units are currently a tattoo studio and a vacant shop unit.

Paul Smith owns the studio, which is named Tattoo Smith.

He explained the reason behind the plans being submitted.

Mr Smith, 47, said: "I've been here in these premises for about two years, but I have been trading in Buckley for 11 years in October.

"I have noticed business in the town begin to change over the last three to five years.

"There have been two other [tattoo] studios open up and rumours of another.

"We do all get on and all studios have their own customers, but Buckley is not a big town and it will not make it easier.

"It's a very niche market and it will start affecting things to some degree."

Mr Smith said he hopes to have the shop converted into apartments, which he would retain ownership of and rent out.

He said the proposal had been a financial decision and that following the conversion he would look to reopen his tattoo business.

"I already have two tenants upstairs," he said.

"I just need the council to approve this so I can go ahead. "It is going to alleviate the housing crisis in the area a little.

"After that I'd look for a new studio in another town maybe, or in Buckley - there are other empty shops here."

Mr Smith added that in the future he may also apply for the conversion of an building to the rear of the studio into another apartment.