COFFEE giant Starbucks has moved closer to opening its first business in East Lothian.

Consent for various billboard signs at the former Raceland karting centre, near Gladsmuir, was given by East Lothian Council at the end of last month.

The go-kart centre closed in January 2018, with permission given to transform the site into a roadside service station just over 12 months later.

During a presentation to East Lothian Council’s planning committee, Euro Garages, which is behind the plans, claimed more than 200 jobs would be created on the site.

Drawings show a 24-hour petrol station and fast food drive-thru, expected to be McDonald’s, as well as drive-thru coffee shop and drive-thru restaurant.

Starbucks is not listed as an applicant but drawings show various logos for the coffee shop chain, as well as files named ‘Starbucks – Macmerry planning’.