Plans for a major revamp of the Applegreen service station in Tramore, including a new drive-thru facility, have been refused by Waterford City and County Council.
The application by Petrogas Group Ltd, trading as Applegreen, had been the subject of considerable local interest in recent months, with speculation about what type of outlet could potentially operate from the proposed new drive-thru.
The application sought a significant reconfiguration of the existing service station.
It included plans for a new drive-thru lane, along with associated signage, a height restrictor, order points and new road markings.
A change of use from restaurant to restaurant with takeaway facilities was also proposed.
The proposals have been a big talking point locally, with a number of international food brands being mentioned in connection with the site.
Burger King, which closed its Waterford City Square outlet in 2017, was among the brands that had been the subject of local speculation, particularly given Applegreen’s partnerships with major food brands at other locations.
Popular American fast food chain Popeyes was also a rumored contender.
However, no particular international food brand was officially identified in the planning application.
The refusal by Waterford City and County Council now puts the proposed redevelopment on hold.
At present, the reason for the refusal has not been published on the council’s online planning information.
WLR has contacted Waterford City and County Council to request the Notification of Decision, which will set out the formal reasons behind the refusal.
The document will provide further clarity on the council’s concerns with the proposed development.
The decision comes after considerable local interest in the future of the Tramore service station and what changes could potentially take place at the site.
**Update as of 14:12 Friday August 14th**
Waterford City and County Council refused the application on traffic and road safety grounds, saying the proposed development could negatively affect traffic movements on the R675 Waterford-Tramore Road and at the Waterford Road Roundabout. It also said the proposed access layout could pose a danger to pedestrians and create a traffic hazard.
