PLANS to build a new drive-through Costa Coffee at the entrance to Milford Haven Docks have sparked a heated debate.

Nine jobs could be created if the Port of Milford Haven is granted planning permission for the new coffee shop on vacant land on Victoria Road.

If successful, it would be open between 5am and 10pm daily.

Shop owners, town officials and residents have mixed views as to whether the development will provide a boost to the local economy or draw business away from independent traders.

Byron Jenkins, chairman of Milford Haven Business Circle, thinks the plans are a “mad idea”.

“Not only will it cause extra traffic issues, but it will serve no real purpose in bringing people to the town,” he said.

“There are plenty of coffee shops available, including the newly-opened Scoop.

“We need to stop focusing on bringing big brand companies in, and work on independent local shops.”

The Port intends to re-brand the docks area as Milford Waterfront - a mix of retail and leisure facilities that it believes will bring in visitors from across the area and further afield.

Some residents believe that a new chain such as the proposed Costa could be the spark needed to ignite the town’s economy.

Local resident Sara Hurley said: “It's time Milford had some chains. I know small traders will think differently and I understand that.

“I would hope that once one big brand comes to the town, others would follow, bringing jobs and interest in the small businesses.”

Lynne Turner, who owns Snapdragon in Charles Street, and previously chaired the town’s business circle, wants to see funding intended for town centre regeneration used in the town centre itself.

“There are so many small independent cafes and coffee shops that would possibly be affected,” she said.

“The number of jobs created could be outweighed by redundancies if it forces small businesses to close.”

Narberth has been cited as a model which Milford Haven could follow, with a focus on independent shops and year-round community events.

Milford Haven town councillor Matthew Norman said he would like to see the Port take a more local approach.

“Pembrokeshire is fortunate enough to have a coffee roasting company within the county,” he said.

“Rather than Costa Coffee - a large chain that banks millions each year - I'd like to see a community initiative apply for funding to open up a Pembrokeshire coffee drive-through.”

The Port’s docks 'masterplan' plan was given outline planning permission in 2015.