Arnold Clark Automobiles has now submitted an application for the historic art deco garage in Glasgow’s west end, which specifies the bid is to transform the building into a shop.

The application also states the intention to use part of the building as a 24-hour gymnasium, with the potential for a space within the garage being used for community purposes.

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Earlier this year, it emerged that Texas-based Whole Foods, which has enjoyed huge success with its organic and natural range of groceries, was close to a deal for a second Scottish store and was close to agreeing a deal for a new site with Arnold Clark.

In 2011 the US firm opened a branch in Giffnock, just south of Glasgow.

A west end outlet would be only the eighth Whole Foods in the UK.

The application states that Arnold Clark’s commercial advisor “undertook extensive discussions with a range of potential occupiers”, leading to the decision for a retail outlet and growing speculation Whole Foods are on the cusp of a west end opening.

Sources previously said Whole Foods approached Sir Arnold’s family in late 2012 about the building and, despite previous reluctance to sell or even hand over control to another company, the motoring firm agreed to work on a deal.

But both Arnold Clark and Whole Foods are guaranteed some turbulence in their pursuit of the plans, with a well-mobilised local population and community council already opposing the plans.

Neither Arnold Clark or Whole Foods were available for comment.