Construction has commenced on a new drive-thru Starbucks in Kingsway, replacing the building on Naas Lane that previously housed a dance studio and an officers’ mess. The 1,744 square foot space has been pre-let to The Magic Bean Company, a Starbucks franchisee.
Developer Robert Hitchins highlights the project as a key “gateway” to Kingsway Business Park, situated on the grounds of the former 340-acre RAF Quedgeley airbase. Upon completion, The Magic Bean Company will enter a 20-year lease agreement for the site. The construction is being executed by EG Carter & Co Ltd.
Laura Short, cluster manager for The Magic Bean Company, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming location: “We’re excited to bring the Starbucks experience to the Quedgeley area. This new drive-thru will provide convenience, quality coffee, and a welcoming environment for both the local community and area workers.”
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Michael Plimmer, senior development manager at Robert Hitchins Ltd, emphasized the broader significance of the development: “As the Kingsway development phase concludes, we’re proud to add another international retailer in the form of Starbucks. Redeveloping the former officers’ mess into a modern, fit-for-purpose building complements the area’s ongoing transformation, enhancing facilities and economic prospects for Kingsway and Quedgeley residents.”
Kingsway has already attracted several national brands, including ASDA, Lidl, B&M, PureGym, MKM, and Greene King. The original masterplan for the former airbase outlined a comprehensive redevelopment featuring 3,300 homes, a 40-acre employment zone, community and leisure amenities, retail outlets, sports facilities, and a primary school.
Mark Harries, associate director at EG Carter & Co Ltd, commented, “We’re thrilled to partner with Robert Hitchins on this next phase of Kingsway. Continued investment like this reflects the area’s growth, and we’re proud to contribute by delivering a high-quality facility that will enhance local amenities and serve the community’s needs.”