Tesco’s legal challenge against the Allerdale-area store has been struck down by the courts. Meanwhile, a consultation has launched for a store in Cheadle Heath.
Workington court victory
Planning permission had been granted for the Workington store by Allerdale Council at its March development panel meeting. The store was always going to be controversial, sitting off New Bridge Road and next to a Tesco.
Tesco subsequently filed a legal challenge to overturn Allerdale’s decision and block the store. The challenge hinged on a planning offer’s report on a planning policy, which the retail giant alleged could have misled the councillors.
Justice Fordham disagreed with the High Court. In addition to upholding the council’s decision, Fordham ordered Tesco to pay £25,000 in legal costs.
David Murphy, the regional head of property at Lidl GB’s Newton Aycliffe office, said the retailer was “delighted” by the ruling.
“As a discount supermarket, we exist to provide households with access to great quality food at affordable prices,” Murphy said.
“For the communities we serve, this is more important now than ever before, and as the cost-of-living-crisis deepens we know that any delays to a Lidl store opening in Workington would have come as a huge blow to many.”
Murphy went on to say that he was looking forward to construction beginning soon.
Cheadle Heath consultation
Meanwhile, in Greater Manchester Lidl is at work drumming up support for a 20,780 sq ft store off Stockport Road in Cheadle Heath. The store represents a multi-million-pound investment, according to Lidl officials, and would create 40 obs.
The store itself would boast a 13,460 sq ft sales area, alongside an in-store bakery. Facilities in the store would include toilets that have baby-changing facilities.
Of the 104 proposed car parking spaces, there would be six spaces reserved for those who are disabled, nine for parents and children, and four with electric vehicle charging capability.
“We are delighted to announce plans to bring a new Lidl supermarket to serve Cheadle Heath,” said Robert Lawton, regional head of property at Lidl’s Manchester office.
“The new store will provide the community with greater access to high quality, affordable produce and we hope that as many people as possible are able to participate in this public consultation. We look forward to sharing our plans and look forward to receiving feedback from the local residents.”
Those looking to engage with the consultation can visit tinyurl.com/lidl-cheadleheath.
