FRESH plans to open a new Pret A Manger as part of the redevelopment of a Halstead service station have been revealed.
Motor Fuel Group, which owns the service station on the corner of Trinity Street and Kings Road, is looking to refurbish the site.
The owners previously submitted plans to Braintree Council to change the service station in summer last year, which included opening a Greggs.
However, despite those plans being approved, a new proposal has now been submitted.
A statement says: “The application was approved for the knock-down and rebuild of the forecourt building, however, this new proposal is suggested to be more efficient and road-user friendly.”
The application proposes demolishing the current empty showroom and furniture store to allow for a side forecourt shop extension at Halstead Service Station.
There would also be the introduction of electric vehicle charging bays and customer parking in place of the demolished building.
This would provide customers and motorists extra facilities which are "considered today necessary to fully complement the existing service station”.
The proposal to extend the forecourt shop would provide a mixed-use facility of retail space and a food area with seating.
Layout plans for the site reveal it to be a Pret A Manger.
The statement says the opening hours for the forecourt shop would remain as currently operated - 24 hours every day.
The forecourt shop and food outlet would continue to be operated by the applicant.
The proposal says the enhanced retail shop merchandising, together with food and beverage facilities and having electric vehicle charging is a "major trend within a modern service station, which has to evolve in response to accommodate and meet the changing needs and aspirations of consumers”.
It adds: “The application site has a long planning history for roadside-related uses and the proposal will meet this roadside need.
“The application proposal is of an appropriate design and will provide amenity benefits to residents.”
Braintree Council will rule on the plans.
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