Plans for a new Starbucks drive-thru and self-storage facility in Chelmsley Wood have been approved by Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council (SMBC).

The development, on vacant land at Bacon's End, Cookes Lane and Waterloo Avenue, Birmingham, will see the construction of a single-storey Starbucks drive-thru café and a three-storey self-storage building, alongside landscaping improvements, a new vehicular access and advertising signage.

A planning statement submitted with the application said the scheme would "make a meaningful contribution to the local economy, both during construction and operational phases".

According to the document, the construction programme will "support local contractors, sub-contractors, and suppliers, generating significant employment opportunities and underpinning skills development within the construction sector".

Once operational, the development is expected to create permanent jobs across retail, management, logistics and maintenance. The statement added that "priority will be given to local recruitment wherever practicable, ensuring the community directly benefits from new jobs".

Applicants also argued the development would help boost the local economy by increasing footfall and supporting nearby businesses.

"By stimulating footfall and supporting local supply chains, the Proposed Development will reinforce the economic vitality of the surrounding area and generate additional business rates, contributing to the funding of local public services," the planning statement said.

The documents describe the Starbucks as a community-focused space rather than solely a drive-thru operation.

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"The drive-thru... provides free Wi-Fi, drinking water and a variety of table sizes and layout," the statement said. "As such, groups are encouraged to congregate and socialise."

It added: "The necessary infrastructure is also provided for individuals to use the space as a remote working hub."

The planning statement concluded that the development "accords with the relevant policies of the Local Plan" and that the proposed mix of uses had been "supported in principle through pre-application discussions".

It also said landscaping proposals would "enhance visual amenity and contribute to biodiversity improvements".

The application has now been approved.

Click here to view the application in full.