Trio of new units proposed for retail park

Plans have been lodged for a trio of commercial units at a West Yorkshire retail park with the potential to support more than 60 jobs.London Metric, supported by Quod and The Harris Partnership, has submitted a full planning application to Kirklees Council for development on land north of Woodhead Road, within Birstall Retail Park.Planning permission is sought for the construction of a drive-thru coffee unit, proposed for occupation by Costa Coffee, and a restaurant and drive-thru unit set to be occupied by Popeyes.A flexible commercial pod unit would also be created suitable for retail, restaurant and café, and hot-food takeaway uses.The existing car park will be reconfigured to provide 50 spaces, a net reduction of 43 spaces.The units are expected to create between 65 and 67 full-time equivalent positions, as well as further roles during construction.A planning statement submitted as part of the application said: “The units are inherently linked as part of the overall scheme, replacing a dated and inefficient building which already exist at the site, and which is lawfully established for main town centre uses.”The proposals will incorporate sustainability measures including electric vehicle parking spaces and a general positive approach to sustainable design and construction.”The site includes a building formerly occupied by Chiquitos and Frankie & Bennys restaurants, which has been vacant since May 2023. This would be demolished under the plans.