Shoppers back plans for new Lidl in Welshpool

Discount supermarket chain Lidl has announced plans to open a new store in Mill Lane, creating up to 40 new jobs.

The plans were unveiled to the public for the first time at Welshpool Town Hall yesterday.

Most gave the plans the thumbs up, but many also said they would prefer the store to be opened in the town centre, possibly on the site of the former Co-op supermarket in Berriew Street.

Councillor Ann Holloway, town and county councillor, said she thought the store would be a huge success in the town.

She said: "This is most welcome because Lidl has prices more in touch with working people.

"Welshpool is two thirds a working class town and people are keen to save pennies where they can. For this reason I am glad Lidl is coming here.

"However, I do wish that they had decided to come to the town centre and the old Co-op store would be perfect.

"I worry that with it opposite Tesco more and more people will use them and then leave without seeing what we have to offer in the town centre.

"If it was opened in the heart of Welshpool then people may be tempted to stop for lunch, visit the market and support other businesses too."

Resident Alan Crowe, who lives in Oldford, said: "I am pleased to see it come to the town and am glad it will offer shoppers more choice.

"However, I am not sure they are in the right location. I am passionate about supporting the local businesses."

Paul Hebblethwaite, property director for Lidl, said: "We are delighted to be putting the plans for our proposed Welshpool store on show.

"We had a large number of people through the door and they were able to view the plans, talk to staff and even try some snacks from out range.

"Feedback has been very positive so far and we are looking forward to working with the residents over the coming weeks."

The store will offer 1,116sq m of shop floor and 65 parking spaces.