IT is looking increasing likely that a new Co-op will open in Ashburton as it submits an application for signage at a new development also being eyed up by coffeehouse chain Starbucks.

Co-operative Food have submitted an application for advertisement, including illuminated fascia signs, at Dolbeare Business Park, which is still under construction.

The Dartmoor National Park Authority put the application out to consultation; Teignbridge District Council said it had no objections and ‘no observations to make’ to 24/01612/CONSLT.

In addition to the Co-op, Dolbeare Business Park will include an EV charge park and, controversially, a drive-thru café.

Multinational coffeehouse chain Starbucks are the frontrunners, which caused much anger among the Ashburton business community when it came to light back in 2023.

Construction on the new business park began in August 2024.

The site has been cleared, with at least some foundation laid.

The progress was described as ‘slow and painful’ by one contributor to an Ashburton-focused page on Facebook.

But the post in question claimed progress was ‘coming along nicely’.

In any case, the post has reignited the conversation, with opinion seemingly split on the new development.