A huge new Lidl store could be built in Altrincham – despite council bosses rejecting similar plans last year.
Eight months after Trafford town hall turned down an application for 2,000 sq m store at Altrincham Retail Park, the proposals are set to go back before the planning panel.
Council officers are minded to approve the plan.
A public inquiry is set to be launched into Trafford council’s initial rejection of the plans in July 2020.
Later this week, Trafford’s planning committee will decide on ‘near identical’ plans to extend and divide the existing Homebase store and garden centre to make room for the Lidl store.
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.
Homebase’s garden centre will be rejigged.
The council has received a dozen letters from residents and businesses opposing the plans. People have raised concerns about the potential for noise during construction and from delivery vehicles once the store opens.
Some people claim the area is already ‘well served’ by other discount stores.
Aldi, which has a store nearby, has raised objections.
The Grade II-listed Railway Inn sits at the A56/George Richards Way junction.
Trafford council’s heritage development officer has objected to the plans, raised concerns over the historic pub building.
Transport for Greater Manchester chiefs have raised concerns about vehicles exiting the site.
In July 2020, planning committee councillors rejected the plans – in line with officer recommendations – due to road safety concerns and the perceived impact the development would have on nearby Altrincham town centre.
A decision will be made on Thursday (April 8).
