New Dumfries drive-thru beside site of potential Costa Coffee set for green light

A new drive-thru at a Dumfries retail park is on the verge of receiving approval from the Dumfries and Galloway Council’s planning applications committee. The proposed development at the Peel Centre is located next to the potential site of a Costa Coffee outlet. Despite objections from local residents, the council is being recommended to give the green light to the project.

The planned drive-thru would offer takeaway options and outdoor seating for customers. While the application includes only a few parking spaces, it is noted that a previous planning application for an adjacent area had 32 approved parking spaces, with the new restaurant utilizing the same access point. The Peel Centre, which has been open for over 20 years, currently has more than 300 parking spaces.

Local concerns have been raised about increased traffic on Lockerbie Road as a result of the development. However, the council’s case officer, Toril Glendinning, believes there would be no significant negative impact on the road network. The report highlights that the new store would only operate between 7am and 11pm to mitigate any potential disruptions.

Despite uncertainties regarding the operator of the facility, the development is seen as a positive addition to the area that has seen underutilized land since the Peel Centre’s establishment. The recommendation for approval comes with conditions to address the concerns raised and ensure the smooth operation of the drive-thru.

In conclusion, the proposed drive-thru development at the Peel Centre in Dumfries is poised to move forward pending council approval. While some locals have raised objections, the potential benefits of the project, including job creation and enhanced amenities in the area, are being weighed against concerns about traffic and parking. The decision of the council will shape the future landscape of this retail park and its surrounding community.