Lidl has submitted an updated planning application to build a new supermarket on a field off London Road, located on the eastern edge of Bath. The budget supermarket chain had previously withdrawn similar plans last July, stating they were committed to opening in the city but needed to refine their proposal after conducting highways surveys and other necessary assessments.
The new application aims to address key concerns, particularly regarding traffic impact on London Road, which was a significant issue with the initial proposal. Glen Stidever, Lidl’s regional head of property, emphasized the team’s dedication to creating a store that meets local demands while minimizing disruption. “We have revised our proposals in design, traffic management, and landscaping to ensure the store integrates safely and attractively into the community,” he said.
The proposed Lidl store would generate up to 40 new jobs and incorporate significant traffic management improvements. Enhanced landscaping and a comprehensive retail assessment indicate the store would not negatively affect nearby shopping areas. Currently, Bath’s only Lidl is on Lower Bristol Road, farther from the city center. The new London Road location is expected to reduce customer travel distances by 29%, cutting carbon emissions by approximately 82 tonnes annually.
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Sustainability is a key focus of the design. The store will feature Bath stone and natural timber cladding to blend with its surroundings, a living green roof, solar panels, and electric vehicle charging points. Facilities for cyclists include covered bicycle and cargo bike parking. Pedestrian safety will be improved by two signalled crossings—one across London Road and another leading into the car park.
Inside, shoppers can expect Lidl’s popular in-store bakery, a middle aisle with diverse products, self-scanning checkouts, and customer amenities including toilets with baby-changing facilities. The loading bay will be acoustically enclosed to reduce noise, and extensive tree planting and living green fencing will enhance the site’s environmental value. These measures will result in a biodiversity net gain exceeding 40%, surpassing local and national requirements.
The original plan encountered strong opposition, with concerns about the site serving as an “inadvertent nature reserve.” During that consultation period, 1,194 objections were submitted to Bath and North East Somerset Council, alongside 402 expressions of support.
Lidl welcomes continued community feedback as the planning determination progresses later this year.