EG Group seeks to build new forecourt store in Colne

EG Group is seeking to build a new service station for drivers coming on and off the end of M65.

It would be situated on land off Whitewalls Drive in Colne.

The company, owned by Mohsin and Zuber Issa, have applied to Pendle Council for planning permission to redevelop the 8.6 acre site with a petrol filling station, car wash, convenience store, drive-thru coffee unit and two industrial units creating 90 plus jobs.

A supporting statement from Nexus Planning says: “The application proposal at Whitewalls Drive in Colne seeks to deliver a modern format mixed-use development, which not only provides for passing motorists on the M65 and Whitewalls Drive, but also seeks to create new units for commercial and industrial use.

“The proposals will see significant investment to Colne, bringing forward a long vacant site adjacent to the M65 for the development of commercial employment units.

“The majority of the proposed development is for employment usage, yet the petrol filling station and drive thru will still create important local jobs and provide amenities for the local catchment.

“The site is strategically located adjacent to Junction 14 of the M65, between the towns of Colne and Nelson on the A6068. Overall, the proposals will strengthen the strategic importance of the M65 Corridor to the borough, and the role of Colne as a key service centre.

“The application site is a parcel of greenfield land located to the south-west of Junction 14 of the M65.

“Euro Garages currently have a programme of building new sites and redeveloping existing sites which are located at strategic points on the highway network.

“The site is currently open, undeveloped land. The proposed development will result in the creation of between approximately 90 and 120 new full time equivalent jobs. Further opportunities would also be created through the construction phase.”

Waterside ward Liberal Demcorat Cllr Dorothy Lord said: “This application will need to be considered very carefully. I shall be consulting residents.”

An EG Group spokeswoman said: “Keeping in line with our investment strategy, Whitewalls Drive Service Station is a new-to-industry development that will provide motorists and visitors to the Colne and surrounding area access to modern convenience retail facilities and look to provide excellent welfare – car parking, washrooms, free Wi-Fi, seating area, drive-thru, disabled facilities, child changing rooms and HGV fuelling provision.”