Plans submitted for new service station next to major roundabout

Plans have been submitted for a service station and coffee shop next to a major roundabout in Renfrewshire.

Euro Garages want to build the pit stop on agricultural land in Lochwinnoch, adjacent to the A737 and Roadhead Roundabout in the village.

The project would include the construction of a petrol filling station, electric vehicle charging points, retail unit and coffee shop, as well as parking and other associated facilities and landscaping.

Planning papers sent to Renfrewshire Council by the applicant’s agent Clarendon Planning and Development said that demand for the station is “high”.

They read: “Given the location of the site on the A737 from North Ayrshire to Glasgow M8, together with the lack of a modern roadside service areas on this part of the strategic road network, it is recognised that the demand for roadside facilities from existing motorists is likely to be high for both traditional refuelling and electric vehicle charging.

“In this regard, in addition to the petrol filling station element, the proposed development offers eight electric vehicle charging points.

“It is however anticipated that the number of EVC points provided within this roadside service area will increase as demand for recharge points increases.

“All Euro Garages sites have the basic infrastructure required to provide additional EVC bays as consumer demand increases.”

Access to the site would be provided from Auchengrange Hill, where widening has been suggested to accommodate a “new all-movements priority access junction”.

The documents said the development would “positively contribute” to the area’s charging network and offer the facilities “demanded by modern day electric vehicle drivers”.

The applicant’s agent said the development had been considered against the relevant provisions of the strategic development plan and local development plan, as well as “other pertinent material considerations”.

They added: “While the application site is located within the green belt there are quantifiable reasons that justify the proposed roadside service area development.”

The application for planning permission is awaiting decision.