A LONG-AWAITED new service station on the A1 which will feature businesses including McDonald’s, Starbucks and the Co-op is nearing completion, with some of the new facilities just weeks away from opening.

The Co-op has confirmed that it is to open a new store on the forecourt of the new petrol station services, off the Gladsmuir Junction of the A1, next month as part of a new nationwide franchise.

The Courier understands that both McDonald’s and Starbucks are also due to open at the new Macmerry Services by the end of August.

The Co-op says that its store at the site – which was once home to karting track Raceland – is one of seven new branches which will be launched across the UK as part of the new deal with petrol forecourt business EG [Euro Garages] On The Move.

The convenience store chain has confirmed that its store and the site will open in mid-August.

READ MORE: Co-op to join McDonald's at new Macmerry service station off A1

A planning application for new signage planned for the services has added the Co-op to the names moving in, as well as McDonald’s, Subway, Starbucks and Greggs.

Raceland closed its doors six years ago and the land was taken on by Euro Garages Ltd.

Following the closure of the go-kart track, it became a target for fly-tippers before the main building was demolished.

Work on the site – which has planning permission for a petrol station, McDonald’s drive thru and retail units, along with a builders’ yard and two trade warehouses – began last year.

A spokesperson for Co-op, said: “The whole team is delighted to be preparing to launch the new Co-op store.

“ It is also very exciting to be opening the brand new store which combines Co-op’s convenience expertise with EG On The Move’s petrol forecourt business.”

Martin Rogers, director of partnership development, Co-op, said: “We are delighted to be working with EG On The Move, our second forecourt partner, helping us achieve our ambitious plans in this exciting sector.

“We look forward to further growing our franchise business, working with partners of pedigree to bring Co-op products and membership to more communities, and creating more value for our member-owners.

“We are looking forward to welcoming our members and customers into their Co-op.

“Our aim is to operate at the heart of local life and we have worked to develop the range, choice and added services to create a compelling offer to serve our community, conveniently.”

Zuber Issa, CEO, EG On The Move, said: “EG On The Move is an acknowledged petrol forecourt and convenience retail destination operator, and we are delighted to have the opportunity to collaborate with Co-op to roll out their new convenience store formats.

“Following on from this seven-store trial, we look forward to working with Co-op to consider other locations across the network.

“Co-op is a well-established convenience operator, respected in the market and a recognised consumer brand, and this partnership not only promises to enhance our convenience store offer but it will also ensure our customers have access to exceptional fuel retail services including EV charging, a wide choice of essential and premium grocery and merchandise, and enjoyable food service experience.”