THE EARLY stages of a scheme for a new store on the edge of Cardigan by retail giant Lidl, with the promise of creating 40 new jobs, have been lodged in a pre-application consultation.
In a consultation ahead of a formal application to Ceredigion County Council, Lidl Great Britain Limited (Lidl GB), through agent CarneySweeney, is hoping to build a new store at the site of the B&M Store, Aberystwyth Road.
The proposal includes the demolition of the existing Buildings and Erection of a Class A1 retail foodstore with surface level car parking, landscaping, and associated development; the 1,976 sqm store including 100 parking spaces.
A supporting statement accompanying the consultation says: “Lidl is now well established in the UK with the company operating 1,000 stores from sites and premises both within and outside town centres. Its market share continues to increase substantially, and the company is expanding its store network considerably. The UK operational model is based firmly on the success of Lidl’s operations abroad with more than 10,800 stores trading across Europe.”
It adds: “Lidl primarily seeks to serve the immediate local community, both through its discounted shopping offer and by providing local employment opportunities. Lidl aims to employ up to 40 full-time staff, allowing them to offer a friendly and familiar service to their customers. Most Lidl employees are recruited from the local area. In addition, the proposals may create opportunities for temporary and indirect employment. Local labour may be recruited during the construction phase of the store, providing further short-term employment benefits.
“The scale of the proposal has been designed to both occupy current Lidl requirements as well future proofing for changes to the overall shopping experience. The sales area provides a modern, attractive and functional space that offers a pleasant environment for both customers and staff.”
It goes on to say: “The proposed new Lidl store strives to reduce environmental impact both through its design and through Lidl’s commitment to following best practices to minimize pollution during the construction phase.
“Furthermore, key consideration to design principles have allow for a robust proposal that will better serve the wider community. In addition to sustainable design, the proposals include several inherent sustainability attributes: the development will provide a convenient local service to residents and the surrounding area, the proposals are located in an accessible area served by transport options other than private cars, including local bus services and safe pedestrian and cycle routes.
“The information provided clearly demonstrates that the new store will be energy-efficient and will promote sustainability within the local community.”
A formal application is expected to be submitted at a later date and the consultation runs up until January 28.
