Dough-ahead for fast food giant’s new local branch

Canadian fast-food giant Tim Hortons is set to land in Washington after plans for a new branch were approved by planning chiefs.

The Toronto-based firm is famous for its range of elaborate doughnuts, pancakes and desserts, as well as sweet drinks, coffees, sandwiches and burgers.

Earlier this year, the chain lodged plans to move into the vacant Frankie & Benny’s unit in the Galleries Retail Park.

Features include“picnic-style” outdoor seating, accessible parking spots, advertising signs, new bicycle racks and pavement improvements.

The plans would also see external changes to the building and landscaping to transform the site, alongside a new drive-thru lane for customers.

During consultation, three objections were lodged with Sunderland City Council’s planning department, with fears ranging from traffic disruption to increased litter in Washington.

One objector was concerned about “the increased local pollution levels from standstill motorised vehicles” while another said visitors to the Galleries often park in nearby streets when car parks are busy, blocking access to drives and garages.

One comment was also lodged in support, stating Tim Hortons would be a “great addition” to the area.

After considering the proposals and comments, council planners approved the change of use.

Agreed opening hours for the Tim Hortons drive-thru would be 7am-11pm, Monday to Sunday.

Tim H or tons operates and franchises thousands of restaurants worldwide, including a number of branches across the UK.

When completed, the Washington site would be its first branch in the North East.

A transport statement which was submitted with the planning application goes on to say: “The site is located within Galleries Retail Park and is adjacent to the Galleries Shopping Centre which combined have more than 2,500 free customer spaces.

“Due to its location, the site is highly sustainable by public transport, with access to 13 bus services within 200m.”