Plans submitted for bakery drive-thru brings speculation that Greggs is coming to Antrim

A planning application for a new drive-through coffee shop and bakery in Antrim town centre will be considered by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s Planning Committee, at a meeting, next Wednesday evening.

The application, which has been recommended for approval, has been lodged by Colin Johnston, a director of the Clear Pharmacy chain.

The site is located within the council-owned Central Car park adjacent to Antrim Castle Mall. A toilet block in the car park, now approved for demolition, had been on the market for £145,000.

The application proposes a “drive thru” bakery/coffee shop, kiosk, indoor/outdoor seating, public toilets, landscaping and car parking.

A report to the Planning Committee notes that the proposal will “not have a dominant effect on the site and surrounding area”.

“It is considered that the works involved will invigorate this part of Antrim town centre by replacing a redundant toilet block with a modern drive-through restaurant.

“It is considered there will be no detrimental impact upon this area of Antrim town.”

The report also notes that there have been no objections to the proposed development.

Meanwhile, the council says that the £8.1m refurbishment of the former Wellworths building at High Street will “create an exciting new open space at ‘Ulster Bar’ corner and will give Antrim a new lease of life”.

Commenting on this development recently, Antrim and Newtownabbey Mayor Councillor Billy Webb said:

“People will be encouraged to come into the town centre to shop and enjoy an event in the pop-up garden.

“Visiting Antrim will be a more enjoyable experience, with improved connectivity along the refurbished boardwalk to Antrim Castle Gardens from the town centre.

“The ripple effects will boost our local economy with this increased footfall visiting shops and enjoying a bite to eat.”