Starbucks aims to create dozens of jobs with proposed new Sunderland drive-thru branch
A new Starbucks drive-thru coffee shop could bring dozens of new jobs to Sunderland.
An application to the city council’s planning department is seeking permission for changes to Houghton House, at Doxford International Business Park.
The plans, submitted on behalf of Jet Ltd, aim to extend part of the office building to allow for a drive-thru pick up window and to reconfigure the car park to create a drive-thru lane, extra spaces for the coffee shop and electric vehicle charging bays.
Submitted designs identify the proposed occupier as Starbucks.
An accompanying planning statement notes the development would create up to 45 full-time equivalent jobs while also supporting a gym being developed within the rest of the building.
The application argues that the coffee shop would be an “attractive facility” for employees at Doxford International Business Park, nearby residents and commuters.
Developers said “minimal queues” are expected at the drive-thru coffee shop and added the development would not cause a “significant adverse impact on the safety of road users travelling on the surrounding road network”.
The planning statement goes on: “There are no adverse impacts that would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits of the proposals and there are no specific policies which indicate that development should be restricted.”
The modified site layout for the coffee shop, if approved, would include 32 parking spaces to the east of the building, including four accessible bays.
In terms of electric vehicle charging, it was argued that plans would enhance the existing local offerings while providing a convenient location to recharge vehicles.
A decision on the plan is expected following a consultation.