A huge new Lidl store will be built in Altrincham – despite ‘near identical plans’ being rejected by council bosses last year.
Concerns were raised by bosses at a nearby Aldi story and residents about the proposals.
But Trafford council’s planning committee voted to approve the plans for the Altrincham Retail Park store on Thursday evening (April 8).
The supermarket will be built where the existing Homebase store and garden centre now sits.
The Homebase store will be reduced in site and the existing garden centre will get a revamp.
In the remaining space, the 2,000 sq m supermarket will be constructed.
A public inquiry is set to be launched into the town hall’s rejection of the plans in July 2020 – in line with officer recommendations – due to road safety concerns and the perceived impact the development would have on nearby Altrincham town centre.
Changes to previous plans include a new vehicle exit leading to George Richards Way; more cycle parking; and changes to landscaping around the site. Lidl bosses have also agreed to reduced delivery hours.
The council had received a dozen letters from residents and businesses opposing the plans. People were raising concerns about the potential for noise during construction and from delivery vehicles once the store opens.
The Grade II-listed Railway Inn sits at the A56/George Richards Way junction and Trafford council’s own heritage development officer also objected to the plans, raising concerns for the historic pub building.
Despite this, the plans were given approval with the majority of Trafford Council planning committee members voting in favour to approve the plans – in line with council officers’ new recommendation to grant.
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