PLANS for a new Costa Coffee Drive Thru on the outskirts of the city have been called 'utter madness'.

People objecting to the plans for a drive through coffee shop in Powick fear there will be an increase in crashes if it is given the green light.

Plans have been submitted for the drive-thru coffee shop on Malvern Road on vacant land next to the Crown Inn Pub.

However, the new proposals have received backlash from residents living near the site with many saying the road is already a crash hotspot.

Jane Croft, of Powick, said: "This application is utter madness on a road that is incredibly busy and unsuitable for drive through traffic.

"There have been several accidents and a death on this road over recent weeks, and the speeding along that stretch has become the norm."

Objecting to the plans, Paula Morris said: "It is entirely inappropriate for this area and this position.

"It is situated far too close to the crossroads and traffic lights to be safe, and the accident rate here is too high already.

"Vehicles slowing to turn into the facility will cause problems so close to the lights and, in turn, cause accidents."

Worcester News has contacted Costa Coffee for a comment and is awaiting a response.

Another resident, Andrew Townsend, compared the road leading to the proposed development to a "race track".

Residents have also expressed concerns about littering and a growing need for a convenience store instead of a new coffee venue.

Rose Kinsella said: "I believe the concept of a drive through coffee shop is absolutely not what Powick residents need or deserve.

"Many new houses have been built locally over the last few years, and Powick needs an infrastructure which will support its burgeoning local community - a local shop, incorporating a Post Office would be great."

A total of 15 full or part-time jobs will also be created if plans go ahead.

Access is proposed through a one-way system through the Crown Inn pub car park.

Vehicles can exit via Malvern Road or the new road being developed as part of a new residential development opposite.

The nearest Costa Coffee Drive-Thru is at Strensham Services on the M5 motorway.

There will be 25 car parking spaces, including two disabled spaces, along with four electric vehicle charging spaces, as well as a waiting or delivery bay.