Sunderland Starbucks drive-thru plans could create 45 jobs

Plans were submitted for the new coffee shop at Houghton House on Doxford International Business Park in Sunderland, including a drive-thru lane, reconfigured parking, and electric vehicle (EV) charging bays.

If approved, the development would see part of the office building extended to accommodate the drive-thru window.

A planning statement included with the application said the project would create up to 45 full-time equivalent jobs and support the gym within the same building.

It described the coffee shop as an “attractive facility” for business park employees, nearby residents, and commuters.

Developers said they expect “minimal queues” at the drive-thru and believe the site would not pose a “significant adverse impact on the safety of road users travelling on the surrounding road network.”

The statement continued: “There are no adverse impacts that would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits of the proposals and there are no specific policies which indicate that development should be restricted.”

The proposed layout includes 32 parking spaces to the east of the building, four of which would be accessible bays.

The addition of EV charging points was described as an improvement to existing infrastructure, offering a convenient place for drivers to recharge.

A decision on the application will be made following a consultation.