A consultation has opened on proposals from Welcome Break to build a new-to-sector motorway services on the A1(M) by Doncaster.
Back in 2017 rival MSA operator Moto applied for permission to construct a new MSA in the same area, but despite being recommended by planning officers this application was refused due to environmental and wildlife concerns, while the firm’s appeal was also rejected.
Now, Welcome Break is hoping to construct a services by J37 of the motorway, with the proposed facility featuring a 26,000sq ft main amenity building with restaurants and shops, a standalone drive-thru coffee shop, EV charging for cars and HGVs, and a petrol station.
The firm says its plans are 25% smaller than Moto’s, though if approved the project will create 200 jobs and cost £50m to build.
This section of the A1(M) is currently served by Moto Blyth, which is 10 miles south of J37, and Moto Ferrybridge 15 miles to the north, leaving a 25-mile gap between services.
Government policy holds that MSAs should be no more than 28 miles, or 30-minutes apart, meaning that while this portion of the road is compliant with recommendations it is near their upper limit.
