Starbucks drive-thru will open on Skegness South Parade on March 14 with freebies for first 100 customers

A date has been set for a coffee drive-thru to open in a seaside town.

Starbucks will welcome customers to its brand-new branch on Skegness’ South Parade next week - it has been confirmed.

From Friday, March 14, visitors to the establishment can enjoy indoor and outdoor seating and the first 100 customers will be offered a free reusable cup, which they can then use to get 25p off future beverage purchases.

The site used to be an abandoned golf course, which was sold by East Lindsey District Council to developers Burney Group for just £1 back in April last year despite its value being £280,000.

At the time, ELDC said that its low-lying location made redevelopment more difficult and costly, hence the £279,999 discount.

As well as the Starbucks, Burney Group is currently working on building a Travelodge on the same plot, which is set to be open by the summer.

The changes have gained mixed reactions from residents online, with many calling for people to support small businesses and others pleased that it will bring more jobs to the town.

One Facebook user said: “I will be supporting it just like I do other locally ran businesses like Rosie Jo's and Artisan. After all, if not, the locals working there won't have a job.”

Another added that when she drove past she felt very uncomfortable and even claustrophobic, saying: “They are so out of place, the hotel especially is too big, too close to the road.

“I would be fuming if my hotel was opposite or actually anywhere near to it, views are gone.”

Despite the reviews, a spokesperson for Starbucks said: “We're excited to bring the Starbucks experience to Skegness and are looking forward to welcoming the local community.”