Key Highlights
- KFC planning permission process initiated for Saltash location.
- This would be the fifth KFC in Cornwall, joining existing sites in Penzance, Bodmin, Pool, and St Austell.
- The application includes plans for a Costa drive-thru alongside a Kwikfit car repair centre on part of the Travelodge site.
- Cornwall Council’s planning department has advised that the proposal aligns with local development plans but requires further assessment.
New KFC and Drive-Thrus Proposed for Saltash, Cornwall
Travelodge Hotels Limited has recently submitted a planning application to expand its portfolio in Cornwall by introducing new KFC and Costa drive-thru outlets. This development could mark the fifth establishment of KFC within the county’s borders, following existing locations at Penzance’s Heliport Retail Park, Launceston Road in Bodmin, Trevenson Gateway at Pool, and Pentewan Road in St Austell.
Site Details and Layout
The proposed outlets would be situated on a portion of the wider Travelodge site located off the Carkeel roundabout in Saltash. The development will consist of three separate buildings: two KFC drive-thrus, one Costa drive-thru, and a Kwikfit car repair centre. These establishments will share access points from an existing service area and feature distinct parking areas—52 spaces for one building and 17 for the other.
Planning Advice and Requirements
The planning application has been referred to Cornwall Council’s planning department, which has provided initial advice based on existing local plans. The Saltash Neighbourhood Development Plan (NDP) supports proposals that include restaurants, leisure, and industrial uses, suggesting that the KFC and Costa outlets are consistent with these goals.
However, the application must still pass a sequential test as outlined by national and local policy. This involves demonstrating how the proposed development fits into a sequence of possible actions and showing its impact on retail competition in the area. The project will also undergo further consultation with National Highways due to potential implications for the Carkeel roundabout.
Industry Context and Expert Perspectives
The move by Travelodge Hotels Limited to expand its presence in Cornwall through KFC highlights the ongoing growth of fast-food chains in the region. According to industry experts, such expansions are driven by increasing demand from local residents and visitors alike for quick-service dining options. The inclusion of a Costa drive-thru also aligns with broader trends towards multi-brand retail clusters that offer a variety of services in one location.
“The proposed development is in line with the strategic vision of expanding our footprint in Cornwall,” said a spokesperson from Travelodge Hotels Limited, emphasizing their commitment to serving local communities while meeting consumer preferences for diverse dining options. “We are confident this will be well-received and contribute positively to the local economy.”
Conclusion
The proposed KFC and Costa drive-thru outlets in Saltash represent a significant step towards furthering the expansion of fast-food chains in Cornwall. With careful consideration from planning authorities, these new establishments could enhance the shopping experience for residents and tourists alike, while also contributing to local economic growth.
For more details on this pre-application process, refer to PA25/01002/PREAPP on the council’s website.
