Plans for a controversial new Lidl in Shiremoor have been green-lit by council bosses despite concerns over traffic congestion and the environment.
The 1,851 sqm discount supermarket will be situated south of Boundary Mills by Park Lane and New York Road. The Lidl will be accessed by car via a new road from Park Lane.
The plans also include a new Puffin crossing on Park Lane to the north of the site to “improve pedestrian and cycling connectivity”.
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The plans generated 73 objections on the council’s planning portal with many complaining about access to residential streets near Park Lane. Alan Campbell MP and North Tyneside councillors Tommy Mulvena and Brian Burdis also lodged objections.
In a written submission to North Tyneside Council, Alan Campbell MP wrote: “Access onto Park Lane will cause additional traffic and congestion to a road that already suffers from heavy traffic. Wildlife will be adversely affected and the removal of hedgerows will reduce nesting sites for birds and habitats for many vertebrates and invertebrates.
“Residents living in the area will suffer increased noise levels due to an increase in traffic. Overall, the negative impact on the wellbeing of local residents is a cause for great concern.”
Despite concerns regarding traffic, according to council documents, the council’s highway department stated: “The impact of the development on the adjacent highway network is not considered to be severe.”
Marcin Koszyczarek, a Rapley’s agent representing Lidl, said: “The proposals will offer substantial benefits including a new discount retail store for the existing and future communities of Shiremoor and the Murton Gap. It will help residents with the cost of living crisis, bring a multi-million-pound investment to the area, and create up to 40 well-paid jobs starting at a minimum of £11 per hour.”
Mr Koszyczarek continued stating Lidl’s transport assessment showed no sign of concern for the local authority’s highways team. He also stated that cycling and pedestrian paths to the new store will help shoppers not use their cars to access the site.
The proposal was approved by a split decision of three votes in favour and two objections.
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