New houses to be built on site of Mirfield’s Lidl

EMPLOYEES with a combined 970 years service were recognised for their long service at an awards ceremony staged by Ellandbased wood panels and flat pack furniture manufacturer Decorative Panels Holdings.

Group chairman Steve Gaunt and group managing director Guy Metcalfe presented the awards to staff who have served 25 years or more – including eight who achieved the milestone this year.

Mr Metcalfe said: “We are delighted to be able to present awards to eight new members of our 25 Club, which brings the total to a staggering 32 of us who have over 25 years’ service.

“We are a proud family business that depends on the drive and support of every member of the team, and we are extremely appreciative and grateful to have such a hardworking and committed group of individuals who year on year contribute to the success of all our group businesses.” green light for Lidl to build the new store back in May.

Lidl will close its existing store when the new outlet opens, which is expected to be in September 2017.

The new store will be double the size of the current one and is being built on land formerly occupied by water management company Veolia. It is expected to create 20 new jobs.

A sign erected in the existing store’s car park says the land has been acquired by Darren Smith Homes for future development after the store moves and opens its new premises.

The award-winning developer, run by brothers Darren and Nigel Smith, is currently developing St Paul’s Lock, a scheme of 38 luxury homes alongside the Calder and Hebble Canal and next to St Paul’s Church.

The site of that development, which will provide independent living for people aged over 55, is to the rear of Lidl’s current site.

Its other developments include Castle Mount at Mirfield, a mix of four and five-bedroom homes.