Proposed new Subway restaurant for Caerphilly could be refused

Planning officers have recommended that councillors reject an application to expand the Texaco on the A472 in Nelson.

Under proposals set out by Motor Fuel Group, the existing jet wash would be removed to accommodate a rear extension.

This would be served by 12 new dedicated parking spaces and a revised one-way traffic system through the site outside Nelson.

But a report says drivers buying petrol could leave their vehicles on the forecourt while buying from Subway, causing ‘unacceptable’ congestion.

There are also fears that Subway customers will park on the forecourt while picking up food even when they are not buying fuel.

“These instances are likely to lead to significant increases in dwell time on the forecourt thereby causing congestion in and around the site and would lead to vehicles queuing onto the A472 restaurant could create unacceptable congestion on the forecourt,” the report says.

“In that regard the free movement of traffic on this main arterial route is of paramount importance, and any proposal that would lead to congestion on this route will be unacceptable.”

The applicants have proposed a separate access to the Subway from the larger parking area at the back of the station – but officers feel the provision will not adequately address the issues raised.

Objections have also been voiced by Nelson Community Council regarding increased traffic flows, the restaurant’s opening hours and the potential for antisocial behaviour.

But officers said it would be ‘unreasonable’ to impose conditions regarding opening hours.

The report adds: “Moreover, there is no evidence to suggest that Subway outlets in general attract any anti-social behaviour.

“Given the location of this outlet on the edge of the settlement, it is considered that such activity would not be likely in this instance.”

Caerphilly council’s planning committee will consider the application on October 10.