Planned service station complex near Newport could create 70 jobs
Up to 70 jobs could be created after fresh plans were lodged to build a service station complex on the outskirts of Newport.
The filling station, a drive-thru Costa Coffee, KFC and a 40-bay lorry park is planned for land off the junction of the A41 and A518 at Chetwynd Aston roundabout.
A report, which has been submitted to Telford & Wrekin Council alongside a planning application, says the proposals are expected to create between 50 and 70 full and part-time jobs.
Applicant Churchill Real Estates was previously given planning permission for a similar scheme but it failed to come to fruition following a downturn in the economy in 2008.
However, the plans state there is now more of a need than ever before to build a lorry park and filling station at the site.
The report says: "The arrival and confidence of Jaguar Land Rover new engine plant on the i54 off the M54 at junction two north of Wolverhampton has meant that the A41 road traffic has increased, bringing even more urgency to the much needed development for a lorry park and fuel filling station.
"With over 20 miles between the PFS at Tern Hill and the other at Cosford en-route, the proposed development would serve the local community and through-traffic road users as well as bringing additional employment opportunities to the area.
"The addition of a tourist information point will give travelling tourists to the area, places of interest locally helping to boost the local economy as well as providing over 50 to 70 full and part-time jobs opportunities directly within the site and more in support and supply locally, within other service businesses."
According to the plans, the petrol station would also have space for a "Subway-type cafe" and toilet facilities.
A shower block would also be provided.
The plans have been welcomed by Patrick Beech, chairman of the Newport (Shropshire) and district chamber of commerce.
He said: "It's a really good idea. It'll put Newport on the map.
"It saves lorry drivers having to come through the town.
"We don't want articulated lorries coming through Newport high street.
"They will be able to make use of the Costa Coffee and KFC too."
Each of the retail units will also have parking spaces, with 30 dedicated to Costa Coffee and 38 to KFC.
Previous proposals had included provision for a motel, but this has been axed from the latest plans.
A decision on the new planning application will be made by Telford & Wrekin Council in the upcoming months.
