A decision on whether Costa will be able to build a third cafe in Dumbarton is now not expected until August.
The coffee giants had planning permission for a new drive-thru store in the car park of Morrisons in Dumbarton refused by councillors last year, however they appealed the decision with the Scottish Government.
A response to the appeal was due by last Monday, however that has now been delayed by the Department for Planning and Environmental Appeals (DPEA).
James McColl, acting development management team leader at West Dunbartonshire Council, wrote to the DPEA to ask when to expect a decision on the appeal.
In response, Jayne Anderson, specialist case officer at the DPEA, responded: “I can confirm that the reporter is about to issue a request for further information, so the decision notice is anticipated to be issued by August 1 2022.”
The delay was confirmed before councillors voted to approve plans for the new cafe’s signage – if it is given the green light by the Scottish Government.
The plans were opposed by Dumbarton East and Central Community Council.
Developers agreed to lower the pole sign to six metres and to remove banner advertising that would face Glasgow Road six months after the store
opened.
However, members stressed that approving the signage would have no impact on the planning appeal.
Speaking on behalf of the applicant, Michael Powell said: “The signage is to reflect the corporate identity of the operator.
“During the applicant process, we have agreed to concessions to reach a mutually acceptable solution.
“The signs are appropriate and will not have an adverse impact on road safety.”
Costa already has two stores in Dumbarton, at Lomondgate Services and in the High Street.
The plans for a third coffee shop were rejected by councillors in December for being contrary to the Local Development Plan “as it would have a detrimental impact on Dumbarton town centre” and because “the proposed development does not prioritise active travel and promotes the use of the private car”.
A total of 431 objections were submitted by residents, whilst local cafe owners said they feared the impact approving the plans would have on their businesses.
Concerns with traffic on Glasgow Road and the ability of the roundabout at St James Retail Park to cope with increased traffic were also
raised.
