Costa and Popeyes drive-thru plans to be reconsidered for Glenrothes after being withdrawn by Fife Council

Popeye’s Chicken and Costa Coffee drive-thru restaurants may still be on the way to Glenrothes’ Bankhead Park.

Developers at Bluewater (Glenrothes 1) Limited previously asked Fife Council for permission to construct two drive-thru restaurants and an EV charging hub on the property adjacent to Bankhead Park Travelodge.

However, the plans were later withdrawn by the developer. Now the proposals have been brought forward once again for consideration.

“The proposed development is for two restaurants, with drive through capability,” a planning statement said.

Unit 1 would be operated by Costa Coffee. Unit 2 would be operated as Popeye’s Chicken. Developers imagine that the remaining plot next to Travelodge will also be developed in the future.

“A standalone EV charging hub will also be provided, which will offer drivers looking for a charging experience a fast, and convenient, service,” developers said.

The Scottish national planning framework previously announced curbs on drive-thrus and out of town developments last year. The document specifically addressed such developments, and recommended a more restrictive approach to new out of town retail and drive-thrus.

However, developers said that both the council and Scottish Government want to promote the use of electric vehicles to reduce the impact of fossil fuels on climate change.

“The Council should be aware that new EV charging hubs, such as the one proposed by the Applicant at Bankhead, will not be constructed at all unless there is a specific reason for motorists to stop at that location,” a planning statement said.

“The drive through restaurants proposed here provide that reason and, therefore, presents the Council an opportunity to enhance Fife’s EV supply network.”

Developers also argued for approval based on the recently completed McDonald’s restaurant and drive-thru immediately south of the site at Bankhead Services.

The council will consider the application and make a decision in due course.