Up to 20 jobs could be created under plans for a new Starbucks drive-thru.
A planning application has been submitted to Lichfield District Council to convert the former Arnold Clarke Automobiles based on Walsall Road, in Lichfield, into a drive-thru coffeehouse with a single storey rear extension and changes to the external landscaping to create new areas of parking and a new drive-thru lane.
The proposed Starbucks will feature both indoor and outdoor seating and there would be approximately 30 parking spaces, including eight electric vehicle charging bays.
A design and access statement submitted with the plans reads: “Currently, the building serves no community value and if it were to lay vacant and disused for any longer would start to become a blight on the local community.
“In contrast, the proposed use would provide a valuable community facility which would provide much needed family friendly meeting spaces which could be enjoyed by the local community as a space to meet and socialise.”
It adds: “Up to 20 full/part time jobs are likely to be created by the proposals once operational. This increase in work force will provide a trickledown effect on other businesses in the area, helping to boost the local economy.”
The last use of the site ended in September 2022.
Part of the proposals for the Starbucks development include removing on of the existing vehicular accesses from Lichfield/Walsall Road, allowing vehicles to exit onto this road only. There will be a two-way entry and exit from Barracks Lane.
The plans are currently in a consultation period and a decision is expected to be made over the next few weeks.
