PLANS for an electric vehicle charging hub next to a cinema in Linwood have been approved by Renfrewshire Council.

Osprey Charging Network has been given permission to develop a section of land near Saturn Avenue in the area of Phoenix Retail Park.

The company will build a facility with 16 charge points on a gap site in the vicinity of the Showcase Cinema de Lux, Marmalade Pot pub and McDonald’s fast food restaurant.

Osprey said in a design and access statement submitted with its application: “Our proposal will serve as a vital piece of new infrastructure for both locals and for visitors.

“Further, it will serve to increase footfall at the local businesses.”

It said the proposals would have “minimal visual impact” on the area, because the chargers will be limited to 2.3 metres in height and contained within a small area.

The company added: “To minimise disruption to the site, both during construction, and once operational, the charge points and infrastructure have been located together.

“With regard to the proposed site layout, the development consists of 16 charging bays arranged around a two-way circulation road.

“The entrance and exit of the site is proposed to be located towards the north western corner, leading into the cinema car park.”

Detailing its reason for granting permission, the council said the proposal is in line with the provisions of the development plan.

The local authority explained in a report on the decision: “The charging hub would be located on a vacant site within an existing commercial centre so would contribute to the development of the wider centre.

“The development could be easily accommodated at the site, would not look out of place and would reflect the form and use of the wider area.

“The proposed landscaping would further integrate the development into the surrounding built environment.

“The proposal would not result in a substantial increase in vehicle traffic within the centre.

“A footpath has been provided from within the application site to the Saturn Avenue footway to improve pedestrian connectivity to the wider centre.”