Starbucks insists a drive-thru coffee shop at Aberdeen beach would have a “positive impact” on the independent cafes nearby.
The US chain unveiled plans for the new branch at the Queens Links Leisure Park in December.
Since then, concerned residents have written to Aberdeen City Council objecting to the scheme.
Many are worried the Starbucks would harm takings at the seafront cafes yards away along the promenade.
Taking the concerns on board, the local authority’s planning department requested developers carry out studies to assess the impact on the Esplanade businesses.
Architects Aurora Planning have now responded to the council.
And they have argued that the drive-thru will, in fact, have a “positive” effect on those nearby traders.
What are the objections?
The Press and Journal spoke to various seaside traders after the Starbucks plans were lodged.
Some were “disappointed” at the proposal, which includes a 50-seater coffee shop.
But they vowed to overcome the challenge, with the backing of residents determined to support local.
Since then, more than a dozen objections have been registered seeking to keep the threat at bay.
Castlehill and Pittodrie Community Council claims the drive-thru would result in fewer people spending time at the beach.
The letter states: “The nature of a drive-thru is likely to encourage customers to travel through and past the beach and Esplanade area, rather than to.”
In her message, Angela Conroy praised the “range of independent eat-in and takeaway food and coffee establishments” which “significantly enhance the area”.
And she bemoaned the idea of “another international brand which already owns several premises in Aberdeen” setting up shop there.
Pleas to reject new Starbucks at Aberdeen beach
Jennifer Butler added: “Aberdeen City Council should support the local, often family businesses and reject this application.”
And Lachlan Shanks said: “The area already has several independent restaurants, chain restaurants, and a fast food outlet.
“Building another fast food restaurant will draw business away from the independent businesses.”
Council steps in over Aberdeen beach Starbucks
The council’s planning department contacted those behind the scheme in light of the objections.
Officers requested answers on “the potential impact of the development on existing commercial outlets in the surrounding area”.
Storm in a coffee cup?
Aurora argues that “drive-thru facilities constitute a specific trading format”, and there will be “no impact on the vitality or viability” of Esplanade businesses.
The firm says that, by providing greater choice, the Starbucks “will enhance the attractiveness and viability” of the area.
Despite neglecting to supply any empirical evidence, Aurora says the benefits are “clear”.
‘No negative impact’
The report states: “The Queen’s Links Leisure Park is tired and ageing and is in need of an injection of new life to regenerate both the park and the wider beach area.
“The proposed restaurant and drive-thru facility will contribute to that regeneration.
“It is not anticipated to draw customers from elsewhere in the beach area, and indeed is
more likely to encourage people to dwell longer in the area and spend more
money there.
“It is clear that the proposed development would have no negative impact, and indeed would have a positive impact on the neighbouring Links Road/Boulevard commercial centre.”
What about traffic troubles?
Other objections relate to traffic and pollution.
Matthew Stroemer writes: “Drive-thrus are incredibly ugly and damage the accessibility and nature of the space around them.
“Why are we building more spaces for cars when we should be encouraging active or sustainable travel?”
Aberdeen Cycle Forum adds: “Drive-thru facilities inevitably lock-in car use with all the negative consequences of congestion and air pollution.”
Aurora has previously explained that the Starbucks would require the “reconfiguration” of the car park, with some spaces being wiped out to create extra space.
You can see the Aberdeen beach Starbucks application here.
