New plans could see a restaurant demolished to make way for a new drive-thru Starbucks in Braintree. 

Here is everything we know so far. 

Where will it be?

The Frankie and Benny’s restaurant in Braintree could be in line to be knocked down following its closure this year. 

The site is just off the Galleys Corner area near the A120 by Braintree. The planning application says the new Starbucks would be a benefit to the town and create a “significant” number of jobs.

Why?

The restaurant chain announced in June 2020 it would be shutting 125 branches.
Now the site could be set to get a complete overhaul after plans were submitted to demolish the old building.

Developer Abbottswick has put forward plans to replace the old restaurant with a new drive-thru Starbucks cafe. 

Braintree and Witham Times:

What do developers say it would look like?

It says: “Car parking constitutes 18 spaces, including two disabled spaces, with overspill parking to the north of the main parking area. A large order waiting bay beyond the drive-thru collection window is also to be provided along with dedicated space for nine vehicles to queue.

“The design employed for the scheme is based upon Starbucks’ house design which is a recognised brand by many people.

“The architecture of the cafe is contemporary in its appearance. Food will not be cooked on the premises and as such only a general air extract system will be needed to be installed.

“The proposal would be of a high quality and sustainable form of design that would constitute an enhancement over the visual and environmental performance of the existing building on the site.

“The proposed development would create a significant number of new jobs for Braintree and amounts to sustainable development, the presumption in favour which is supported both at the central and local level.”