FOUR new food outlets could be built at a service station and business park in the Ribble Valley if proposals go ahead.

The application, submitted to the Ribble Valley Borough Council by Blackburn-based Euro Garages is for two drive-through units and two food units at Barrow Brook Business Village.

Plans for the site also include 76 car parking spaces, including six disability spaces.

The proposal also states that the new food businesses would provide 25 full-time and 25 part-time jobs.

In the design and access statement, submitted to the council, a spokesman for Euro Garages said: “It has been demonstrated that the proposed development of two drive-through units and two food units represents an entirely appropriate form of development within the Barrow Brook Business Village and should be welcomed and supported.

“The works would result in the re-use of a vacant site and secures a long-term, active use which will significantly contribute to the local economy.”

Euro Garages has become one of the UK’s largest privately-owned forecourt operators since being founded in 2001.

The group has brand partnerships with BP, Esso, Shell, Spar, Starbucks, Subway, Greggs and Burger King.

The new food outlets would add to the existing petrol station and McDonald’s which are currently located in the Hey Road site.

The company has said in its planning statement: “It is therefore considered that the site is located within an area where development will be supported in principle and is of a type of use which will support the employment aspirations for the Barrow Brook Enterprise Park.”

Euro Garages’ Transport Assessment for the proposed development has said that it does not believe it is likely to give rise to unacceptable traffic impact on the local highway network.

The site is currently used as grassland and the new plans would take up 732.2 square metres of floor space.

Preston-based PWA Planning acted on behalf of Euro Garages in submitting the planning documents.

Leader of the council Cllr Stuart Hirst said: “The Ribble Valley has an active policy for economic development.

“Obviously all plans will be taken on their individual merits but I welcome any inward investment into economic developments in the area.”