TOO LIDL TOO LATE FOR TESCO
Supermarket fails in last-minute bid to scupper rival’s plans for new store
DISCOUNT supermarket giant Lidl has been given the go-ahead to build a new store on the outskirts of Hanley – despite a late objection from Tesco.
The rival retailer raised concerns about the impact of the new Lidl – earmarked for land off Lichfield Street – on city centre traders.
Tesco’s objection was submitted last Friday, members of Stoke on Trent City Council’s planning committee heard at their meeting on Wednesday.
They adjourned proceedings for almost half an hour to read the paperwork and Councillor Andy
Platt, who chaired the meeting, spoke out about the lateness of the objection.
Committee members went on to unanimously approve the Lidl application, which will involve the redevelopment of land previously occupied by Endeka Ceramics, formerly Johnson Matthey.
The ceramics works next to the Caldon Canal were demolished two years ago.
Julie White, an agent who spoke in support of the application, said the new supermarket would bring jobs to the area, with around 80 per cent expected to be filled by people living near the site.
“They will benefit from pay that will exceed minimum wage,” she added. “The proposals will regenerate a prominent brownfield site and a route into the city centre.
“If there was a genuine concern (from Tesco) as to any material planning issues this would have been raised much earlier.”
The objection letter submitted on behalf of Tesco said: “The proposal is an unsustainable form of retail development when sited in this out-of-centre location.
“It would give rise to a significant adverse impact on town centre trading conditions.”
But the plans were recommended for approval by planning officers.
There were 25 comments submitted by neighbours, with the vast majority in favour of the plans. The store would help regenerate the area, remove an eyesore, reduce reliance on cars for residents and boost jobs, supporters said.
But objectors said there were too many supermarkets already in the city and the site should be used for housing instead.
There were 10 alternative sites in the city centre considered, including Hanley’s former M&S and BHS branches as well as the Potteries Shopping Centre and the old police station in Bethesda Street. But they were considered unsuitable or unavailable.
Committee member Councillor Gurmeet Singh Kallar questioned safety measures for vehicles turning right from the new store. The committee heard that visibility splays and a box junction were proposed to assist
drivers.