An all-new Dorset Starbucks store is nearing completion.

A new branch of the popular US speciality coffee shop chain has been under construction on Hamm Beach Road opposite Lidl at Osprey Quay, Portland.

Although Starbucks would not confirm an opening date, the Echo understands the company has already been interviewing for positions at the site, which will be a sit-in venue and a drive-through. It is located next to Portland Harbour and close to the sailing academy.

Despite initial concerns about extra litter, traffic and the impact that the building would have on Portland’s landscape, plans were approved back in 2022.

These concerns about the site also included the design of the building not reflecting the unique waterfront setting and the expanse of 76 car parking spaces.

Natural England said it was worried about the litter likely to be generated by the drive-through and asked for proposals to deter people walking from the site to the Hamm Beach.

Dorset Council planning officers had told the area committee that the site is within the defined development boundary and is considered to comply with the Local Plan. There had also been no objection on highway grounds and transport officers believed that the drive through and business units would only result in a minor increase in traffic.

Dorset Councillor for Portland Paul Kimber told the Echo: “We have got to think of the future jobs that it will bring to the island and the many projects that will also be coming to Portland.

“Ultimately, Starbucks will be an asset to Portland and there will be a lot of things happening.”

When bakery chain Greggs opened at Osprey Quay back in 2021, it was fitted out with a drive-through which abruptly closed in 2022 as ‘more customers were choosing to do over-the-counter purchases.’

Starbucks has not yet revealed an official opening date for the new site.

A spokesperson for Starbucks said: "We are always looking for new locations and opportunities to bring the Starbucks experience to customers in the UK, but at this time we have no news to share about plans for Portland, Dorset."