Plans for new Lidl in Chester-le-Street set to be approved

A proposal submitted by the supermarket retailer would see a new store built on the site of the former Go North East bus depot in Chester-le-Street. 

Lidl says the multi-million pound project would create up to 40 jobs, providing a significant boost to the economy while improving shopping options for the community.

If approved, the new Lidl store would be built opposite Aldi’s branch in the town. Up to 133 car parking spaces are proposed. 

Durham County Council’s planning committee will consider the application on Thursday (December 18). 

The German retailer said the former bus depot site, in Picktree Lane, is the most suitable after reviewing others nearby.

A statement added: “There are currently limited opportunities for any significant new development within Chester-le-Street town centre and, of those sites which have been identified, none are suitable or available to accommodate the proposed development. 

“It has also been demonstrated that the proposed development would not result in any significant adverse impact, either upon investment in centres, or town centre vitality and viability.”

A total of 43 letters of support were submitted to the local authority ahead of the application’s determination, praising the plans to redevelop the derelict site. Lidl said the store would act as direct competition to Aldi, which is popular with shoppers. 

The statement added: “Whilst the store would divert some trade from existing stores in Chester-le-Street town centre, the stores are currently performing well or will continue to perform a top-up role, which attracts visitors using the town centre for other reasons.”

However, the German-based retailer’s proposal is opposed by Tesco, which said the new store would negatively impact the town centre. 

David Murphy, regional head of property at Lidl GB, said: “Our plans for a state-of-the-art Lidl store would deliver a significant boost to the local economy, enhance local shopping options, and provide much-needed access to our high-quality, affordable products.”