PROPOSALS for a new supermarket which could create 40 jobs look set to be approved later this week – despite more than 80 objections.

Planners will decide whether to allow the new 2,476sqm Lidl store in Whiteley at a meeting on Thursday.

The new store, which is recommended for approval, would be built on overgrown scrubland off Rookery Avenue alongside a 120-space car park.

As previously reported, concerns have been raised about traffic congestion around the site, near junction nine of the M27.

Speaking last year when plans were submitted, leader of Fareham Borough Council and director of Solent Local Enterprise Partnership Sean Woodward said he was in favour of the new store “in principle” as it would provide “shopping diversity” in the area, but expressed concerns over traffic.

Whiteley Town Council repeated those concerns in its objection to the plans, arguing: “A retail outlet will add to the current severe congestion and parking issues in the area. The applicant offers no mitigation to cope with the traffic the development will generate.”

Also among those objecting were supermarket giant Tesco, which argued that the new Lidl branch would “have a significant adverse impact” on other businesses and investments in Whiteley.

If approved by Winchester City Council’s planning committee, planners argue a contribution of £200,000 towards local road improvements should be made.

CONTACT ME

t: 01962 860836

e: michael.seymour@

dailyecho.co.uk