
A new diner and drive-thru food takeaway, employing eight people, is on the menu for Penrith’s Gilwilly Industrial Estate.
A planning application has been submitted to Eden Council for the proposed development, which would be located on vacant land off Cowper Road, opposite the premises of Lloyd Ltd, which offers easy access from both industrial and business areas.
The application has been made by Mr S Dixon, of Edenhall, who is aiming to remedy the current lack of any food outlet following the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to Mr Dixon’s agents, the Penrith-based Manning Elliott Partnership, the scheme is part of a phased multi-million-pound investment by their client to develop Penrith Business Parks.
It is hoped the development will support existing businesses and help grow the estates by providing key on-site facilities.
A spokesman said: “Our client has also made a recent application to extend Howdens and as architects we have made several recent applications to refurbish, extend and construct new buildings on the estates to provide accommodation that will support the growth of existing businesses and encourage new businesses to take up residence on the estates.
“With a lack of food establishments on the estates workers have been forced to travel off-site to buy food during the day, drastically increasing journeys by car. This development is a fantastic opportunity to support businesses and workers, reducing journeys and contributing to growth and our sustainable aspirations for Penrith Business Parks.”
The proposed development is designed as a modern, 102sq m single-storey building and with a glazed facade. It would employ four full-time and four part-time workers.
The design would allow for pedestrian access, with vehicular access off Cowper Road. With the need for on-site parking being limited because of the drive-through facility, there would be spaces for 16 cars, one motorbike and four bicycles.