The potential impact of a new Costa in Dumbarton on businesses in the town’s east end is set to be scrutinised as part of an appeal against the refusal of planning permission.
Costa, which already has stores on High Street and at Lomondgate, had permission for a new drive-thru store in the car park of Morrisons on Glasgow Road refused by councillors last year.
However, it appealed the decision to the Scottish Government.
The plans were rejected 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.
A response to the appeal was due in June, however that has now been delayed by the Department for Planning and Environmental Appeals (DPEA) until at least the start of August.
And, last week, the reporter deciding on the case wrote to the developers and West Dunbartonshire Council to ask for further information - including on the potential impact the new cafe could have on existing independent businesses in Dumbarton East.
Previously we reported how Gayle McCallum, of You’ll Love Our Home
Bakes in Dumbarton East, warned allowing the new store could force her business - and others - to the wall.
She told the Lennox: “If Costa doesn’t get their application approved then they’ll survive. If they get it then some of us might not.”
Now, in a letter dated July 13, the reporter asks: “While many of the representations to the council expressed concern about the impact of the proposed development on the town centre, many were also concerned about the implications for Dumbarton East, which is identified as a local centre in the Local Development
Plan.
“From the representations, it appears that this is a vibrant local community.
“The council and the appellant are asked to provide their views, with any supporting evidence, of the potential adverse impact of the proposal on the viability and vitality of Dumbarton East.”
WDC is also asked to provide traffic flow information relating to the roundabout at St James’ Retail Park, with the reporter adding: “Many of the representations express concern about the implications of the proposal on existing congestion along the A814 Glasgow Road and at the roundabout leading to the appeal site.
“While the reporter accepts that the council’s road services did not object to the application, no response has been provided regarding this point.”
Further information on the potential impact on Dumbarton town centre and estimated number of customers has also been requested.
WDC and the agent working on behalf of Costa have until July 27 to provide a response.
