Plans to open a new Pret a Manger store at Leamington Shopping Park have taken a step forward.

Warwick District Council (WDC) has approved planning permission for new signs at the currently vacant unit Fa at the Tachbrook Park Drive centre.

Plans show the signs would be illuminated.

The unit was actually created in 2018 when two other shops were divided, and sits in between Clarks and JD Sports.

While the application is only for new signs, plans also show there would be at least 25 tables inside the coffee shop, with a further eight situated outside.

"The proposed internally illuminated fascia signage and internally illuminated sign at first floor level is simple and proportionate in both size and appearance having regard to the host building as a whole," the application said. 

"And nor does it over-dominate either the frontage or the premises or result in clutter, whilst the proposed signage also replicates the size, siting, design and appearance of existing signage to neighbouring commercial premises located within the shopping park."

An artist's impression of how the new coffee shop would look (image via planning application)

A separate planning application has also been approved for a change of use at the unit, meaning it can now sell food and drink.

"Officers consider that the proposed variation of condition would not have a significant harmful impact on the town centre or any other retail units within Leamington Shopping Park or shopping areas of Royal Leamington Spa," a council report said, signing off on the plans.

"There are not considered to be any highway safety or design implications resulting from the variation of condition.

"Based on the above it is considered that the proposed variation in condition will not undermine the function of the town centre and the condition can be amended."

Pret's only other locations in south Warwickshire are in Stratford-upon-Avon and at the M40 services.

No possible opening date has been confirmed for the store, should planning permission be approved.

See the full plans here.