A grocery chain wants to replace the car wash at a gas station in the city. The plans have been approved by the city council.

The Motor Fuel Group submitted plans to West Suffolk Council in May last year to convert parts of the Haverhill Service Station on Sturmer Road into a “food-to-go pod”.

The plan was to demolish the station’s engine room, pressure washer and car wash to replace them with the city’s second Greggs. Demolition work has already been carried out and the site is now ready for use.

Haverhill City Council initially objected to the plans on the grounds that the movement of tankers on the site would pose a danger to pedestrians, but after updated plans were presented, it withdrew its objection.

Both the City Council and the District Representative, Councillor Tony Brown, support the development on the condition that the above-ground petrol station is installed before Greggs first opens for business.

A planning statement submitted on behalf of the company said the new pod will provide refreshment options for customers charging their cars at charging stations approved in February. Work has also been completed on two new jet wash bays and seven car parks.

West Suffolk Council officials have approved the plans subject to conditions – construction must begin within three years.