PLANS to build a new Costa coffee shop on the edge of a retail park in Heckmondwike are to go before planners for a second time.

The scheme, at Northgate Retail Park, which houses 10 units including a Lidl supermarket and a drive-through McDonald’s, was deferred by the planning committee in January.

Members of the Heavy Woollen planning sub-committee had concerns over highways safety issues, distances to neighbouring properties, and asked the applicant to demonstrated how they will mitigate against any invasion of privacy.

A planning document states that Costa is hoping to build on a rectangular grassed area of land near the entrance to the retail park’s car park, off Albion Street, that was originally intended to be developed when the retail park was built.

The proposals include parking for 25 cars, but parking will be also be available within the remainder of the retail park’s car park for customers.

A report to the committee states: “The building would have a predominantly rectangular footprint with one curved corner in glazing panels.

“It would be single storey designed with a flat roof and facing masonry to match existing retail units and the immediate context.

“There would be a detached bin storage area to the south west side of the building occupying one car parking space, and an area of hard standing adjacent to the south eastern side, suitable for outdoor eating.”

Environmental Health officers have expressed concerns about noise from customers and deliveries at unsocial times that may impact on residents of the nearest houses on Albion Street.

But they believe if service deliveries take place during operational hours, it would mitigate any noise.

Planners are recommending the hours of operation be restricted to 7am to 8pm and that service deliveries are restricted to these times, and a maximum of two a day by box van.

Highways officers are awaiting a seven day traffic survey on vehicle queuing movements from the existing McDonalds drive through entrance into the car park at peak times.

Planning officers are recommending the latest plans be approved subject to an assessment of the additional highways information, which is expected to be received at the meeting.

The meeting is on Thursday, March 15.