'Planning concern' closes popular Cork coffee drive-thru

Boxd Coffee said it was actively engaging with the council and that it hoped the closure of its Midleton drive-thru was a temporary measure

Boxd said it hoped the closure would be a temporary measure as it continues to engage with the council. Pic: Boxddrivethru Instagram

A popular Cork drive-thru coffee chain has announced the closure of one of its locations due to a "planning concern."

Boxd Coffee said it would close its Midleton drive-thru on Monday, adding that it hoped the move would be a "temporary measure."

Cork County Council confirmed it has opened a planning enforcement file into the case.

The coffee chain opened its East Cork location earlier this year, with the company saying the closure was "not due to a lack of support."

"The business has been fully viable and incredibly well received by the people of Midleton, clearly demonstrating the need for facilities such as ours within the town," the company wrote on social media.

The chain's other locations in Carrigrohane and Ballincollig are unaffected by the Midleton closure.

Boxd said that while the current economic climate presents challenges for many businesses, having to close a successful one is "particularly difficult."

The company said it has been, and will continue to be, "in active engagement" with the council as it works towards reopening as soon as possible. 

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"At this stage, however, it has been recommended that this course of action is necessary to ensure those discussions remain constructive and productive," it added.

Boxd said it is committed to doing "everything possible" to ensure that no jobs are lost as a result of the closure. 

"As a Cork-born company with a passion for growing our business in the county while supporting local suppliers and businesses, this situation is deeply frustrating. 

"Nevertheless, we remain optimistic and hope to share more positive news in the coming weeks in regard to Midleton and as we continue to invest and grow across Cork."

Boxd said its investment plans, including the addition of 15 new jobs, will now be put on hold.

The company declined to comment further when contacted by the Irish Examiner.

Cork County Council confirmed that an enforcement file has been opened in relation to an unauthorised use at the site.

In a statement, the Council said it conducted an inspection of the development for which there is no planning permission. 

"On this basis, the Planning Authority has recommended the initiation of proceedings under Section 160 of the Planning & Development Act 2000 seeking the developer to cease the unauthorised use. This matter remains an active enforcement case and as such it would be inappropriate to comment any further at this time."