AN award-winning television producer is looking to convert a former warehouse cold store in Chepstow into a studio to film a new programme for the BBC.

Howard Overman, who has produced hit series including Merlin and Misfits, is looking to use the former Tesco warehouse on the Newhouse Industrial Estate.

Filming is due to start in April for transmission in September and an application has been made to Monmouthshire Council for permission to change its use.

A letter to the council states: "The use of the building will be as a TV studio for the filming of a new TV series on behalf of the BBC and follows the company's recent success with Merlin."

Although the change of use will be initially temporary, it could be that it becomes long-term depending on how the show goes down with the viewing public.

The letter states: "The use of the building is intended, at least initially, to be a temporary use specifically for the production of a new show which is to be screened by the BBC.

"It is unknown at this state how long that show might run for and therefore how long temporary use might endure."

The production will employ about 70 people on average when filming although there are times when that would be doubled when two film units are working.

The company was looking for permission to be in the building by the end of January to start conversion of the building.

The News was unable to contact Howard Overman Productions either at the address in Spring Street, London given in the planning application or at its registered address in Hove, East Sussex.

A spokesman for Monmouthshire Council said: "The planning application is under consideration – the town council and nearby businesses have been notified and the consultation period will be due during early February.

"We hope to make a decision shortly afterwards, depending on the responses received."