Students have been invited to leave their mark on the site of one of Hounslow's most iconic shops, which is being flattened and replaced with homes.

Diggers have already begun demolishing the former Wheelhouse variety store in Bell Road, just off Hounslow High Street, with its distinctive clock.

The housing association A2Dominion bought the land last year and wants to build a mix of new homes and shops or offices there.

Precise details of the planned development remain under wraps but it is due to submit a planning application to Hounslow Council next month

The former Wheelhouse store before it was demolished

As its architects finalise their plans for the building, A2Dominion has challenged local schoolchildren to design a huge 4mx12m artwork which will grace its fascia.

Students at The Heathland School, in Hounslow, have been asked to produce designs representing energy and sustainability, with £500 up for grabs as well as the chance to see their work on permanent display.

Karen Green, A2Dominion's assistant director of development, said: "We are delighted to be holding this art competition for the students at The Heathland School.

"We have been providing homes in Hounslow for nearly 70 years and are excited that talented young people will compete to add vibrancy and a lasting legacy on a scheme which will deliver more much-needed homes in the area."

Art students at The Heathland School in Hounslow with teacher Paul Driscoll and A2Dominion's assistant development director Karen Green

A2Dominion is already building 155 homes in London Road, Hounslow, and another 101 in Hounslow High Street. It is also creating 61 new homes at the former Alfa Laval site in Ealing Road, Brentford, and 25 in Pears Road, Hounslow.

Wheelhouse was a family-run variety store. Its closure in 2009 after more than half a century was blamed by its owner on the town centre's demise, though recent shop openings have boosted confidence in the High Street's fortunes.

The building briefly reopened as Sunrise Plaza and was occupied by squatters after that too closed.