Supermarket giant Lidl has unveiled ambitious plans to demolish its current Bilston store, which it describes as outdated and failing to meet modern standards, replacing it with a brand new facility.
The budget retailer has submitted a comprehensive redevelopment proposal to City of Wolverhampton Council that would see the existing High Street location completely rebuilt from the ground up.
Why the existing store needs replacing
In planning documents, Lidl described its current Bilston supermarket as poor quality and outdated, stating it falls short of contemporary retail standards. The company emphasised that the existing building suffers from operational limitations that compromise customer service quality.
The application states: The existing foodstore is constrained by its outdated design and operational limitations, which compromise the quality of service currently offered.
This isn't the first time Lidl has sought permission for redevelopment. Council planners had previously backed similar plans in March 2022, but that planning permission has since expired, requiring a fresh application.
What the new development will include
The proposed modern supermarket promises significant improvements for both shoppers and the local area. Key features of the redevelopment include:
- Increased parking capacity from 136 to 155 spaces
- Dedicated electric vehicle charging points
- Enhanced cycle parking facilities
- 9% increase in net sales area
- Broader product range and improved internal circulation
- More efficient building footprint despite larger sales area
Interestingly, the current proposal has removed plans for two additional retail units next to the site's McDonald's, which were part of the 2022 approved scheme.
Broader regeneration benefits
Beyond simply replacing an aging store, Lidl argues the redevelopment will deliver wider benefits for Bilston town centre. The application highlights that the project would markedly improve the visual amenity of the site and the western extent of the High Street.
The supermarket chain claims these improvements would generate wider regenerative benefits, contributing positively to the vitality and attractiveness of the town centre as a whole.
The development would also improve entrance arrangements for those travelling into the town centre, addressing current accessibility concerns.
In a related development, City of Wolverhampton Council has also given Lidl permission to build another new store and 17 homes on the site of the former Gills sausage factory and abattoir in nearby Parkfields. That project, approved in September, will create 40 new jobs and include a 110-space car park.
The Bilston proposal represents Lidl's continued investment in the Wolverhampton area, demonstrating confidence in the local economy while addressing the need for modern retail facilities that meet contemporary consumer expectations.
