A planning application to install a new drive-through at a vacant unit at The Galleria in Hatfield has been approved.

The plans, submitted by LS Galleria Ltd, proposed a drive-through service window and a new traffic lane added to Unit 70 at the shopping outlet in Comet Way.

The removal of ramps and railings, and the enlargement of an external service door was also part of the proposal.

Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council approved the plans yesterday (November 25), with conditions put in place before work can being.

This includes a "suitably scaled plan of an alternative surface-level cycle route through the Galleria site" being approved "to ensure that a cycle route is maintained in a satisfactory location in the interests of highway safety".

The unit has stood vacant since 2020, when Chiquito shut down after owners The Restaurant Group decided to close 51 of its 60 UK stores.

Back when the plans were submitted, the Welwyn Hatfield Times reached out to The Galleria about a potential new tenant moving into the space, but a spokesperson confirmed the drive-through was a not change for a specific restaurant.

It is also believed that the new drive-though will help to create between five and seven jobs.