A CAFE chain has spoken out after there was a backlash its new plans to build a drive- thru near Worcester.

Plans for a new Costa Coffee Drive Thru on Malvern Road, Powick, on the vacant land next to the Crown Inn Pub have been called 'utter madness'. 

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

However, a spokesperson for Costa Coffee said: "We can confirm that a planning application has been submitted for a Costa Coffee on Malvern Road in Powick, Worcestershire. 

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"However, at this time, we have no further information to share on the potential development."

Residents living near the site have described it as being a crash hotspot.

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

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However, Worcester News readers felt Worcester already had enough Costas in and around the city and were calling for a Burger King or a village shop.

And Shakayla Bailey wrote: "We have already got three Costas in Worcester!

"Come on we don't need another one!

"We want a Burger King!"

But, not everyone was critical. Simon May wrote: "Can't beat a Costa! Fantastic news."

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.

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.

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