Starbucks is all set for a return to Woolwich – less than five years after it pulled out of the town.
The global coffee chain had an outlet in Powis Street for about a decade, but shut up shop in 2018 in what was seen as another blow for the area.
Now it hoping to come back – to the Royal Arsenal rather than the traditional town centre. But coffee lovers won’t be able to linger with their drinks if the plans get the go-ahead, as the new outlet will be a takeaway store only.
Starbucks plans to open up on the ground floor of the 400-year-old Grade II-listed Officers’ Block, next to the Elizabeth Line station.
The chain has submitted a planning application to erect signage outside the building, promising “minimalist and simple illuminated items”. Further applications are expected for the interior, with the plans coming under special scrutiny because the Officers’ Block is a listed building.
Earlier this year plans for an LED screen outside the station were withdrawn by Berkeley Homes after a local councillor objected; while a new arcade of shops and homes has appeared on Major Draper Square, close to the planned Starbucks store.
Late last year, four blocks of up to 26 storeys were approved for the eastern end of the Elizabeth Line station.
No opening date is planned for the Starbucks, and the chain has been contacted for comment.
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