Plans for new drive-thru Starbucks in Kelso divide opinion
Last updated 22nd Dec 2023
Starbucks has unveiled plans to build a new drive-thru coffee outlet in Kelso.
It's submitted an application to Scottish Borders Council to develop the former foundry site - next to Maxmill Park - which has lain empty for more than 20 years.
Councillors are expected to discuss the application in the coming weeks.
It comes just a year after the coffee chain opened its first Borders outlet in Galashiels.
But the proposals have divided the town - having already attracted more than a dozen objections, and around half a dozen comments in support.
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One objector said: "Kelso has an abundance of businesses selling similar products to Starbucks in the town centre. These businesses increase footfall in the town centre which supports our local economy.
"Starbucks would take visitors away from the town centre. I also have concerns about the effect of disposable food and beverage containers being littered on our environment."
Another agreed. They said: "Other towns in the Borders are blighted by empty units, and this development would push us further down this road. It also sets a concerning precedent, it takes one Starbucks as a starting point, one is travelling dangerously towards a town that loses its character, and is failing."
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Concern has also been raised about the increase in traffic in the area and whether the neighbouring roads can cope.
But local councillor Tom Weatherston has voiced his support for the plans. He said: "This site has sat derelict for well over 20 years and has become badly overgrown and lets the area down, it's good news for Kelso that the site has been purchased.
"This site was considered suitable for a supermarket during the public appeal for a Kelso supermarket, so in planning terms this should be treated favourably.
"Sainsbury's has recently closed their cafe so this would replace that facility in this part of town.
"This type of drive-through facility is a different offer to town centre cafes and I am confident this proposal would not have a big impact on the town centre businesses, and would be more attractive to people driving through the area."
And he added: "It will be very good to see this part of Kelso tidied up after many years."
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