COSTA coffee is coming to Dartmouth.

The company is set to open a 34-seater coffee shop in Victoria Road after district councillors approved plans on Tuesday.

South Hams Council’s development management committee voted nine-three in favour of the change of use application for 5-9 Victoria Road.

But there will be strict conditions on noise and insulation, air conditioning operating hours and access via the main entrance to protect the amenities of neighbours.

Approval was also given for modifications to the shop front, including a new door, and the installation of one air conditioning unit at the shop.

Advertisement consent was granted for one facia sign and one projecting sign at shop.

Afterwards, a spokesman for Costa said it was too early to be specific about an opening date but it would be as soon as possible.

‘We welcome the committee’s decision and look forward to investing in Dartmouth and bringing a new Costa to the town,’ he said.

The decision follows weeks of uncertainty surrounding the application, which has brought letters of both support and opposition to the plan. Those unhappy with the plan sent in 87 letters of objection and a 1,554 signature petition.

There are were worries over litter, noise and disturbance and the town council had expressed concern over the unneighbourly aspect of the air conditioning units close to Hanover Cottages to the rear.

But those backing the plan – with 80 letters of support – said 10 new jobs would be created and the coffee shop would provide a choice of retail options and not affect existing businesses.

Paul Williams, representing Costa, told the committee it was understandable that neighbours had concerns but Costa wanted to work with them so as not to disturb their lives.

Phil Townsend, of Victoria Road, raised concerns over smells coming from the proposed toilet close to a window at his house but the council’s environmental health officer said he did not believe the installation raised any public heath worries.

Cllr Rosemary Rowe said she believed all objections had been addressed in the conditions. ‘And it’s better than having an empty shop,’ she said. ’That’s no good to any town or street whatsoever.’

But Cllr Jacqui Hodgson, from Totnes, which five years ago had campaigned against Costa opening in the town’s Fore Street, said she regretted the potential loss of an independent shop in Dartmouth and the impact on tourism.

Cllr Hodgson, fellow Totnes councillor Robert Vint and Cllr Julian Brazil voted against the plan.