Drive-thru proposals approved for major junction

BURGER King and Starbucks are set to open new drive-thru restaurants in Perth after proposals were approved by councillors.

The chains will occupy two of five new drive-thru units next to the Broxden roundabout.

Councillors also approved 14 business units, electric vehicle charging places and a three-storey office block.

It is likely to become the new base for Perth construction firm Algo.

The works are planned for scrubland next to the existing Broxden services area.

It already boasts a Mcdonald’s, Travelodge, Harvester, a petrol station with a Subway restaurant inside and a busy parkand-ride site, with a Costa coffee outlet nearby.

Agents for the developers told Perth and Kinross Council’s planning committee they were confident there was demand for more drive-thru restaurants in the area.

Councillors were also given assurances that the projects are unlikely to strip business away from the city centre.

Objectors raised concerns about the impact on traffic congestion and road safety around the busy Broxden roundabout.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) also questioned the potential flood risk at the site, located between the existing Broxden services and the M90.

However, the council’s own flood team said it has no concerns.

Committee members were told the bulk of the business for the drive-thru restaurants was likely to come from passing traffic.

But Perth city centre councillor Chris Aherne said: “I’m all for business coming to Perth but what I am slightly concerned about is our developments surrounding Perth – at Inveralmond and Broxden – in bringing businesses to there and actually taking it away from the city centre.

“We have a huge issue with trying to bring businesses into the city centre and trying to get people in and shopping.”