No. The Drive Thru will be located on an existing area of hardstanding car park , away from any listed buildings or heritage structures. A specialist Heritage Statement confirms there will be no harm to the Trentham Conservation Area or the Grade II* Registered Park and Garden.   

No trees within the woodland area will be cut down. A small number of “immature”, ornamental trees within the car park will be cut down, but these will be replanted as part of the proposals. A minimum of 10% Biodiversity Net Gain will be delivered as part of the scheme.

Yes. The estate has an extensive car parking provision. The proposals include changes to the car park layout, which have been assessed to ensure adequate parking is maintained, including during large events.  

A Transport Statement has been prepared and submitted to Staffordshire County Council (Highways). The Drive Thru will primarily serve existing visitors to the estate and passing traffic on the A34 and is not anticipated to generate significant additional traffic movements.  

Starbucks is a well-known, high-quality operator that will complement Trentham's existing food and beverage offer. The Drive Thru will serve visitors during early morning hours when other on-site restaurants are not yet open and will also serve commuters and road users on the A34.  

The Drive Thru is expected to create 15 permanent FTE jobs and a further 15 temporary FTE jobs during construction. An estimated £400,000 in annual wage expenditure will be generated for the local economy.  

To remain a world-class visitor destination, Trentham must continue to invest in and refresh its offer. Diversifying facilities, including through a convenient grab-and-go coffee option, supports repeat visits, extends dwell time and keeps Trentham competitive as a national destination. This directly supports the Staffordshire visitor economy.  

The planning application is expected to be submitted to Stafford Borough Council following the close of the public consultation period.