Despite significant concerns over traffic congestion, Warwick District Council’s planning committee has approved the construction of a coffee drive-thru at the Marriott Hotel site on Stratford Road, Warwick. The decision, which came after a heated debate, allows the development to proceed despite reservations from some councillors about potential traffic issues.
The proposed drive-thru will be located near the M40 motorway junction 15 and shares access with a nearby residential cul-de-sac. Members of the planning committee expressed doubts about the necessity of this new facility, noting the proximity of Warwick Services, located approximately six miles south of the junction.
The planning report for the project highlighted that the drive-thru is intended to cater primarily to motorists traveling along the M40 corridor. The report argued that no other suitable town center or sequentially preferable locations are available for such a facility.
Although the Warwickshire County Council’s highways department did not object to the proposal, it has mandated the installation of keep-clear markings to prevent traffic disruptions at the entrance to Warwick.
Councillor John Holland, representing Warwick West, and others voiced concerns about the potential for increased traffic in an already congested area. However, despite these objections, the committee ultimately decided to approve the plans.
This development was reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, which monitors local councils and public service organizations.