Starbucks plan for police station set for approval

A plan to demolish an empty police station in Long Eaton and replace it with a Starbucks drive-thru has been recommended for approval.

Planning officers on Erewash Borough Council said the development for the Midland Street building would be "welcome" investment for the town centre.

Applicant Stronghold Commercial Properties Ltd said the proposal would create 20 jobs, but residents who submitted objections raised concerns about traffic congestion, noise impact, and access and egress to surrounding sites.

Councillors on the planning committee will make a final decision on Wednesday.

The police station was among 58 building closures announced by Derbyshire Police in 2015.

A council planning officer said impacts on surrounding highways and flood risks were deemed to be "acceptable".

"Whilst it is appreciated there are significant community concerns regarding the development of the site into a drive-thru for a large international company, the impact on the town centre has been found to be appropriate and the investment is therefore welcomed.

"The design would have less impact upon the street scene than what is already in situ and the listed building, highway and flood risk impacts have all been found to be acceptable.

"I therefore recommend for approval."

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