Lidl builds schools on its shops

LIDL is building schools and flats on top of its supermarkets as it steps up its UK expansion.

The German discounter is planning to develop more than 3,000 homes on top of stores in London in an attempt to appease reluctant planning authorities.

Lidl’s new store in Richmond will have a school built above it over two floors and will include an outdoor playground. It is also working with local businesses to provide space for offices, hotels and student accommodation. According to experts, the move is part of a bid to persuade planning authorities to give it space for shops by showing it is contributing to local communities.

Christian Hartnagel, chief executive, said: ‘We’re in an incredibly fortunate position where we are able to continue investing into communities.’