Three national food and drinks chains are clamouring to open up in Greenock

Council planning chiefs threw out proposals for a £1m drive-through Starbucks in Cartsdyke Avenue and also refused permission for retail units - including plans for a Domino's pizza outlet - at the former Larkfield Masonic Association (LMA) hall site on Auchmead Road.

But the developers have appealed the decisions and their cases will be heard next week by councillors who have the power to overturn the rulings.

Sava Estates already had planning permission for three shops at the former LMA site at Auchmead Road and unsuccessfully tried to add another unit to include a Domino's.

They say that bakery firm Greggs are also keen to take up a space at the site.

A planning statement, submitted by Bennett Developments & Consulting as part of the developer's appeal, says: "It was explained that the applicant wanted to deliver a quality development with a range of uses to cater for the local community.

"It was also explained that the takeaway alone, which was identified as being a Domino’s Pizza, would provide employment for 30 persons.

"Another occupier who is ready to conclude legals is Greggs Bakers, who would be employing a further 10 persons.

"In all the total development would offer employment in excess of 40 persons, would see a vacant derelict site developed, a service to the community delivered, and income to the

local authority though rates payable.

"Dominos and Greggs are quality tenants and have a long track record of sound management so issues of an anti-social nature, should they occur, are dealt with expeditiously."

Council planning chiefs refused permission due to concerns about the impact a bigger development would have on neighbouring residents.

But the developers' agents say that it would be of 'great concern' if the bid was not given the green light on appeal.

Meanwhile, bosses at Starbucks are ready to fight their case for a coffee drive-through at the other end of town, just beside the RBS mortgage centre.

It would have created around 30 new jobs but planners said the premises would contravene the Local Development Plan.

The document stipulates that the site should only be used for certain business and industrial uses but bosses at the global coffee chain disagree.

Starbucks' appeal statement says: "We believe that when reaching their decision to refuse planning permission, planning officers did not evenly consider all parts of the relevant planning policy alongside other material considerations, including the length of time the site has been undeveloped, changed circumstances with regards to the Enterprise Zone no longer being in place, extended and unsuccessful marketing, regeneration benefits and job creation."

Starbucks say the development would be a catalyst for wider investment and breathe new life back into an empty brownfield area of land that has been vacant for a considerable period.

Councillors on the Local Review Body will decide on the developments at a meeting on Wednesday.