Timpson has been granted permission to open a new unit in Morrisons car park in Verwood despite 66 objections against the move.

The planning application, which gives the go-ahead for a stand-alone unit to trade in the car park, is part of a nationwide deal between the two companies.

Timpson at Morrisons will offer key cutting, shoe and watch repairs as well as phone and tablet repair.

The majority of objections claimed Timpson would threaten the survival of local businesses already offering a dry cleaning service and key cutting in Verwood.

Verwood Town Council also responded, but did not object to the opening of a new store in the town.

The unit will be opposite the main entrance, replacing three parent and child spaces which will be relocated elsewhere in the car park.

Roger Fogg, Director of Popular and Useful Services at Morrisons, said: “This partnership will mean that customers will find more popular and useful services at Morrisons stores.

“This is a way of growing our offer that is both capital-light and simpler for our colleagues.”

James Timpson, Timpson Chief Executive, added: “Through Timpson at Morrisons we will give shoppers our full service offer, from key cutting to mobile phone repairs, while they shop. We’re also looking forward to making our great value dry cleaning service available to new customers in even more Morrisons stores.”

The planning application says the unit will be open from 7am till 10pm Monday to Saturday and 10am till 4pm Sunday.