A COSTA Coffee shop in the Magnolia Centre has the support of the Town Hall despite concerns about outdoor tables blocking the precinct.

A COSTA Coffee shop in the Magnolia Centre has the support of the Town Hall - despite concerns about outdoor tables blocking the precinct.On Monday, the town's planning committee supported the multi-national chain's bid to set up at 36 Chapel Street - formerly Adams - just metres away from Cafe Uno.Members also backed plans for two tables and eight chairs to be placed directly outside the front of the store.Costa Coffee said the tables, chairs and barriers would not be fixed, removed at the end of each day and stored inside to allow access for emergency vehicles.Despite the pledge, councillors did not support a bid for a further four tables and 16 more chairs to be placed in a strip opposite the shop - because it would obstruct the walkways. Councillor Ian Stewart: "I welcome that a multi-national brand wants to come to Exmouth - it's great news."They want to use the middle bit of Adams to put out a central seating area and, in principle, there is no problem as this is what coffee shops do. But, in summer, it gets very busy and what they propose would restrict the walkway."I have no objection to the outside seating, but I'm not happy with them taking up so much room."Councillor Steve Gazzard said: "I'm disappointed that Adams are not coming back - I thought they would be."We have to take into account that we will have a real problem with people with disabilities, especially those people with visual impairments or who are blind. Let Costa put the tables out, but just not as many as they want."Councillor Brian Walker said: "From the point of view of an electric buggy user, it's nice to be able to pull up outside a cafe and get served."Town manager Tony Collins said: "It's a welcome addition to the prime shopping area."The application will now be considered by district planners.