AN EVESHAM councillor has claimed a drive through Costa Coffee which has been approved by planning chiefs poses an increased risk of more traffic congestion on the A46.
The new coffee shop will be built on land off the A46 roundabout in Twyford, next to the Co-op petrol station, after councillors on Wychavon District Council’s planning committee backed the plans last Thursday (May 26).
But Highways England have asked for a full travel plan to be produced before the first spade is put in the ground in order to make sure the impact on the A46 is reduced as much as possible.
Coun Charlie Homer, who represents Harvington and Norton on Wychavon District Council, told the Observer he is concerned about the increased traffic congestion he believes the coffee shop will add to one of Evesham’s major roads.
“My main concern is the A46 and the ever increased use of the roundabout with the movement of traffic on and off this site and in my opinion the increased risk this poses, as well as possible further congestion in the area,” he said.
In a traffic assessment submitted to planners, Costa Coffee, said: “The Transport Assessment confirms that, based on the submitted information and analysis, there are no highway or transport reasons to preclude the approval of the scheme.
“The impact on the surrounding highway network should not be considered severe.
“The proposed development will generate less traffic when compared to the previously submitted development proposals for the site, which the Highways Agency confirmed at that time would result in minimal impact on the A46 trunk road,” it added.
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