City chiefs discuss new drive-thru plan
PLANNING bosses are set to meet today to discuss a controversial application which could see a drivethru coffee shop built on the site of an existing garage.
Despite receiving 13 objections from local councillors and Dennistoun Community Council, council chiefs are urging that the plans for a drive-thru Starbucks are approved.
Councillor Kim Long who represents the Dennistoun ward for the Scottish Greens, believes that the plans are “totally unacceptable” given the climate emergency declared by the council.
She said: “This is already an extremely busy road and junction. I am concerned that a drive-thru coffee shop will attract more traffic than currently causing traffic issues and increasing air pollution. The problem of litter from takeaway coffee cups is well documented. I believe a drivethrough coffee shop would increase litter in the area.”
Councillor Alan Casey has also voiced his objections over concerns that trees in the area would have to be cut down. There is uncertainty whether or not these belong to the land owner or the local council. Mr Casey has written to the council seeking clarification on this.
As well as that, concerns have also been raised about the impact the proposed early opening and late closing times would have on local residents.
Lauren Bennie, a local resident and member of Dennistoun Community Council, said: “The noise and disturbance from business, customers and traffic for a drive-thru shop will be detrimental to the health of its neighbours. The quoted opening hours are also excessive and serves to be of detriment to noise levels for neighbours to endure before, during and after opening hours.”
While council officers are not able to comment on live planning applications, bosses have recommended that councillors approve the plans at the meeting.