MOTORISTS could soon be enjoying a drive-thru coffee at the Knutsford M6 Services.

Moto Hospitality is seeking planning approval for a drive-thru building operated by Costa Coffee at the Knutsford North Moto Services.

The drive-thru is earmarked for the M6 northbound services between junctions 18 and 19, and would create 10 jobs.

“The planning application proposes a drive-thru Costa Coffee comprising a 28 square metre building, with no internal seating of public areas,” said a report by JWA Architects accompanying the application.

“The purpose of the drive-thru is to provide an alternative to the main food court for customers. At busy times it also enables additional capacity in the food and beverage offer at the site.

“Permission has been granted on this site for a similar scheme. The proposal differs from the previously approved scheme in that the kiosk building will be provided on an existing grassed area in the western end of the motorway service area adjacent to the car park.

“It would result in the loss of 21 parking spaces, but these would be relocated within the motorway service area, and so there would not be any reduction in the parking provision overall.”

The report said the proposed drive-thru had sufficient capacity to accommodate the anticipated number of cars queuing, and allow for ordering and preparation of hot drinks.

The relocated spaces would be accommodated in an area of landscaping between the circulation road and the motorway.

To make the most efficient use of this parking area, eight existing parking spaces would be relocated from the outside of this landscaping area, into the parking area within the landscaping area.

A total of 29 parking spaces would therefore by created within this landscaped area.

“Further landscaping within the motorway service area will ensure the drive-thru improves the overall character of the area,” added the report.

“As a result the current proposal would not have a greater visual impact on the character of the area than the existing development in which it is contained, and will not contribute towards any additional impact or harm to the Green Belt.”

Planning approval is being sought from Cheshire East Council, and the deadline for comments is August 22.