Starbucks plans for Wiltshire branch cause concern

Starbucks has lodged an application for a pavement licence for its new branch on Chippenham High Street.

The store was yet to open at the time of writing, with work to refurbish the former Wilko unit where it will be based ongoing.

As part of its preparations ahead of opening, the chain has applied to have a seating area on the High Street, at the branch’s entrance, made up of four tables and eight chairs.

A public consultation on this application ended on Wednesday, October 30, and during this process Chippenham Town Council “regrettably” voted to object to the proposal.

While members of the planning committee were supportive of the idea to improve the atmosphere of the High Street, they were concerned the location of the tables would create an access issue.

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The planned seating area (Image: Cobra Coffee) This is because of the unit’s proximity to several other obstructions, including a large grey traffic sign which is due to be removed, bollards, and the town gates.

Cllr Matthew Short said: “Generally I’m supportive of table licences because they create a continental atmosphere… it adds to the visual aspect of the High Street.

“I’ve looked at this position several times and I’ve got some concerns about the access there.

“On that particular side in that particular position, I do have some concerns… if it was a bit further up I wouldn’t have a problem.”

Cllr Pete Cousins believes the addition of the seating area on a “narrow” stretch of pavement would create “frustration” for both customers and pedestrians.

He added: “I can’t support this application even though I’m very much in favour of generally having tables outside.

“In this particular location, the width of the pavement is under two metres, we’ve got items on the road which means there is a pinch point.

“We see during the folk festival the narrowness and the lack of ability of people to get up and down the street, if we allow tables, chairs, and people sitting it’s going to create a lot of frustration.”

Starbucks (Image: Newsquest) If approved, the seating area could be used by customers throughout the new coffee house’s opening hours.

The final decision on the application will be made by Wiltshire Council.

Starbucks was approached for comment.