COMMUNITY councillors are opposing a plan for a coffee shop with a drive-through takeaway next to Fisherrow Service Station in Musselburgh.

The Motor Fuel Group has applied to East Lothian Council for planning consent for the outlet on land to the west of the existing Shell petrol filling station on Edinburgh Road.

It is believed Starbucks are keen to trade there.

Speaking at a recent meeting of Musselburgh and Inveresk Community Council, chairperson Irene Tait said that the community council had lodged an objection because the development would result in the loss of “green space” in the town.

“You’d be driving into the town and looking at a car park,” she added.

“The trees there are kept well and the grass is always lovely and green.

“I think it would be a shame.”

Community councillor Betty Ramsden felt the plan would not be “an improvement” to the nearby Fisherrow Harbour area.

A planning design and access statement, submitted on behalf of the company, stated: “The restaurant will be designed with on-site and drive-through facilities for vehicles, cycles and pedestrian access, with internal and external areas to enjoy refreshment for the passing traveller, as well as for the local community in the Fisherrow Harbour locality.”

Also planned is parking, new service lanes and a new landscape plan for the site.