Starbucks drive-through plans raise traffic and litter concerns

PLANS have been submitted for a drive-through Starbucks coffee shop that would create 25 new jobs at an industrial estate in Calmore.

Brunel Road Developments Ltd, on behalf of Dandara (Southern) Ltd, has applied to build the single-storey building on a former car park within the South Hampshire Industrial Estate in Eddystone Road.

If approved by New Forest District Council, the store would be open from 5am until 11pm, seven days a week. It would create 15 full-time and 10 part-time jobs.

The application states: “The design will provide a new modern building which will integrate well into the surrounding area.

"The proposed drive-thru will result in a high-quality development, which is respective of the character of the surrounding area. Access to the site will remain as existing.”

Pre-empting concerns about rubbish, the application said it would provide bins for general and recycling rubbish and run litter-picking patrols about three times a day.

There will be 15 car parking spaces provided as well as two for disabled customers and one waiting bay.

In document submitted to the council, the applicant adds: “Based on the expected trading level of the proposed store and comparisons with other Starbucks drive thru facilities, we would expect in the order of 30-40 vehicle arrivals in the busiest hour."

Commenting on the plans, Cllr David Hills, who is a member of Totton and Eling Town Council, said: “Personally speaking, whilst not against a coffee shop I have a few concerns that I'd like reassurance on.

"Firstly, is one of air pollution. With a number of cars queuing with their engines idling, what will it do to air pollution levels nearby?

“Second concern is one of litter. I'm always seeing McDonalds wrappers dumped in local car parks and on roads, despite McDonald's promising it wouldn't happen. Thirdly, drive-throughs tend to become meeting spots for impromptu races by cars and bikes.

"We already have an issue with this on the trading estate - won't a drive thru just exacerbate this issue?”

So far the application has received four letters of objection and two in support from members of the public.

A decision by NFDC is scheduled by 31st March after the deadline for public comments on 15th March.