STARBUCKS has been given permission to open a coffee bar in Knutsford.

Macclesfield Borough Council approved the company's plans to change the use of a proposed shop in the Royal George development after it agreed not to serve customers outside.

"We were concerned about the tables outside because they would be near the car park entrance and the access is not that good," said Clr Walter Wright.

"They withdrew that so we passed it although we have asked that they include a no-smoking area." Starbucks is one of the world's biggest coffee shop chains and has 6,000 outlets across North and Latin America, Europe and the Middle East. The 20-seater coffee bar in Knutsford will be part of the £10million Royal George development, which developer Philip Hughes says will transform the centre of Knutsford. The company had hoped to position tables near a terrace where diners will enjoy food at the new restaurant due to be opened by celebrity chef Paul Heathcote.

Starbucks is expected to employ about 14 staff and serve coffees, cakes and sandwiches.

Last week Mr Hughes said his firm had secured 15-year deals on five shops in the soon-to-be-named Regent Street - and promised more big names. "The 15-year contracts mean they have got to be committed to the town," he said.

"What we don't want is poor quality businesses because we don't want to have empty shops in the future."Mr Hughes bought the historic King Street hotel more than four years ago.

Regent Street, which will also include offices and apartments, is due to open next year.