A SUPERMARKET is seeking permission to open two new stores in the North-East.
Lidl has submitted planning applications for new stores on the Southern Gateway site in Stockton High Street, close to the old Swallow Hotel, and on Blair Avenue in Ingleby Barwick.
The plans for a new store in Stockton follows the firm's commitment made last year to return to the town centre, after the closure of its Wellington Square store.
NEW: The site of the planned new Lidl store in Stockton Picture: Google
Bosses say both stores will create up to 40 new jobs each for the local economy, and will also feature facilities including an instore bakery, customer toilets and ample parking for both cars and bicycles.
David Murphy, Lidl UK’s regional head of property, said: “We are delighted to announce that we have submitted planning applications with Stockton Borough Council.
"If granted this would mark a multi-million pound investment in the area, and the creation of new jobs when the store opens.
"We would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone for their support and feedback so far and look forward to receiving the decision in due course.
“A big draw for us is the regeneration of Stockton town centre, which has made it a very attractive location for us to open a new store.”
SCENE: Blair Lane in Ingleby Picture: Google
Cllr Nigel Cooke, Stockton Borough Council’s cabinet member for regeneration and transport, said: “Having a quality supermarket is a big driver of footfall for any town centre so we are delighted that Lidl is keen on bringing this prime regeneration site into use.
“As we all know, town centres across the country are changing beyond all recognition, as is the retail sector as a whole.
"What’s telling is that Lidl’s interest in coming back to Stockton town centre has never waned.
"It’s a huge vote of confidence, not just in the town centre itself, but in all that we’re doing and trying to do.”
The planned stores will add to Lidl’s existing store portfolio of 720, and will form part of the company’s growth plans which will see it open up to 50 new stores a year.
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