PLANS have been put forward to build a brand-new Costa coffee drive-thru, The Advertiser can report.

In news that will be welcomed by caffeine lovers, the chain has submitted proposals to build an outlet on the junction of Watery Lane and New Street, where the McDonald’s and BP garage sits.

The coffee giant is proposing to demolish a former car dealership and convert it into a shop and drive-thru.

Salisbury Jones Planning, which is representing the mega-brand, estimates the new outlet would create up to 18 full and part-time jobs.

It notes in its application: “Costa Limited do not use zero hours contracts. There is a bonus scheme for all employees and they have a high internal promotion rate. All employees are paid at least the minimum wage for 25+ year olds, regardless of their age.”

The proposed opening times would be from 06.30 to 22.30 from Monday to Saturday and 08.00 to 22.30 on Sundays.

Andover Town Council has decided to object to the plans, saying the site could result in a “danger of tailbacks causing excessive traffic congestion”.

The deciding authority, Test Valley Borough Council, will consider the applications later this year.

Also in this week’s paper:

- Enham’s vaccine plea is answered

- MYP implores town council to put their differences aside

- The Rendezvous to become rehabilitation centre

- Man caught by paedophile hunters is given suspended sentence

- Andover Alliance will not stand if elections held in May

- Test Valley councillors vote to accept allowance increase

- Ludgershall car wash raided for illegal meat cutting applies for permission to become legitimate

- Anger over housing plans for Lord’s estate

- Two pages of YOUR letters

- And much, much more

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