PLANNERS are being asked to approve proposals for a 24/7 Starbucks drive-thru on the Riverside Retail Park to replace the former Harvester Restaurant.
It would mean demolition of the existing building and the loss of five car parking spaces to make way for the purpose-built facility, which would create 12 full-time jobs and operate 24/7.
The application to be considered by Warrington Borough Council planners is for the demolition of the existing unit and erection of a drive-thru coffee shop / café / restaurant (Class E(a)/(b)/sui generis hot food takeaway) with associated servicing, landscaping and external seating; part configuration of the existing car park; and associated works.
The applicant, Warrington RP Limited, has a long-term interest in the Riverside Retail Park, having owned the site for a number of years.
The application is part of an investment initiative by the owner to improve the customer experience since there is no other similar offer on the park, with an existing McDonalds drive-thru already in operation.
The proposals seek to bring back into use an area of longstanding vacant floorspace and contracts have already been exchanged with Starbucks, subject to receiving planning permission.
While Starbucks already operate from a number of sites in the town, including a recently opened branch in Stockton Heath, they are seeking to provide a drive-thru operation in the central/southern part of Warrington.
The proposals would create 12 full-time jobs while representing an investment that would deliver additional retail choices for residents in the local area and go to the very heart of sustainable economic development.
The existing building would be demolished and replaced with a purpose-built unit complete with drive-thru facility.
It would result in the loss of five car parking spaces overall.
Founded in the 1970s, Starbucks now have more than 32,000 stories in 80 countries. The application will be decided by committee.
3 Comments
The retail park is a nightmare to exit at weekends . If you look at the reports of last weekend motorists were waiting over 2 hours to exit the retail park .
The problem is there is only one exit . That needs to be addressed urgently before they consider opening other businesses on the retail park
Yeah and that’s not gonna help the bad traffic situation on that retail park. Stupid idea
This will be approved as it makes money for the council in business rates. They will not have any interest in the traffic issues it will create.