Go ahead for new Costa Coffee drive-through in Hartlepool

Business and council chiefs say they are confident its arrival will help to generate further interest in the Vision Retail Park, formerly Highlight Retail Park, off Marina Way.

Owners M Seven real estate company is refurbishing the 65,000 sq ft retail units, upgrading the whole terrace frontage and landscaping and improving the car park.

The Marina and waterfront area is one of eight areas identified in the Hartlepool Vision blueprint to revitalise key areas of the town, sparking wider regeneration and make the town more prosperous.

Stewart Smith, asset manager with M Seven, said: “We could see that there was lots of enthusiasm locally to rejuvenate the town and clearly we wanted to be part of that.

“We are delighted that planning consent has now been granted for Costa Coffee. It’s great to attract such a well-known brand; there is a lot of interest in the remaining units and I am confident that we’ll have further announcements in the months ahead.”

The refurbishment of the retail park is expected to be completed by this spring and the Costa unit could be ready by the autumn.

Councillor Christopher Akers-Belcher, leader of the council, said he was thrilled M Seven had bought into the Hartlepool Vision initiative. He added: “The improvements to the retail park are very impressive and it’s a huge boost to attract a brand name like Costa Coffee.”

Bilton and Johnson are the main contractor.