A DRIVE-THRU Starbucks is set to be built in Northwich after planning permission was given the green light.

The company had submitted an application to Cheshire West and Chester Council’s planning department for the new coffee shop on the corner of Station Road and Old Warrington Road which has now been given the go ahead.

The site is currently occupied by empty buildings previously used by The Car Centre car showroom and a smaller pitched roof building next to it which was used by Enterprise car rental. Under the plans, the larger building will be flattened with the smaller one being retained and being granted permission for change of use.

A design and access statement submitted in support of the scheme said in addition to the new drive-thru, a second as yet unnamed company would be taking over the smaller building.

It said: “It is intended that the proposed drive-thru unit would be occupied by Starbucks, a national multiple coffee shop operator.

“The drive-thru Starbucks will represent one of a growing number of the company’s ‘roadside’ formats which are designed to complement the brand’s traditionally strong high street portfolio.

"The existing out building is likely to be occupied by a small company or hot food take away operator, which are seeking an existing and accessible business unit.”

An additional planning statement said the proposed development responds to specific demand from Starbucks for a 'visible' site in that part of the town.

It said: “The specific demand is for a site that is easily accessible and visible from the strategic road network to the east of Northwich.

"The site is visible from the strategic road junction which is 100 metres to the east of the site, and a right-turn lane from Chester Road on to Station Road means that pass-by trade can easily access the site via Station Road.

“The site is accessible from all main routes that are to the east of the town centre without the need for any further detour.”