Customers could soon be able to pick up their steak bakes and sausage rolls from the comfort of their car at Greggs first drive-thru in Kent.

Plans have been submitted to Swale council to convert the former Regis Medical Centre, in Saffron Way, Milton, near Sittingbourne.

The planning application shows a drive-thru lane and parking for 48 cars, including four wheelchair accessible spaces. Seating areas would also be provided inside and out, along with toilets, and the buildings will be painted in Greggs' famous grey, blue and orange colours if the plans are given the go ahead.

A design and statement submitted as part of the plans said the application sought detailed planning permission for the construction of two new buildings, with one providing a drive through facility in addition to the restaurant/cafe, and takeaway uses.

It added: "The proposal includes general site clearance, parking, servicing access and associated landscaping. It also includes a driveway to provide access from Saffron Way to the [Milton Creek] Country Park to the north east.

"The site had been used for some years as a doctor’s surgery operating out of a mobile type building. This use ceased some years ago and the building has now been removed. The site is thus vacant."

Cllr Tony Winckless (Lab), who represents Milton Regis on Swale council, said he thought the new eatery would be a good asset to the local community, if granted.

He said: "I think it's a good project. I understand there will be a proper access road to get into the country park, as part of the plans, which is something that we really need."

He added: "The medical centre hasn't been used for a good few years. I would say it's an eyesore, to have it revamped would be an improvement."

Cllr Winckless said in terms of the site's location, it would be "a good asset to the local community", what with the country park users and the nearby Trinity Trading Estate.

Similar plans for the site were put forward in 2017(reference 17/502468/FULL) for Bobbys Foods PLC. They were granted permission, but this has since lapsed.

The former Regis Medical Centre moved to Quartz Way and is now known as The Meads Medical Centre.

A Greggs spokesman said: "At the moment we can let you know that Greggs are interested in a site for Milton. We will share more information with you when we have it."

To view or comment on the plans click here and use the reference 21/503978/FULL.

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