Discount supermarket giant Lidl has officially submitted a new planning application to completely redevelop its Bilston store, proposing to demolish the existing building and construct a brand-new, modern facility in its place.
Replacing an Outdated Store
The retailer argues that the current store on High Street is "poor quality and outdated" and no longer meets the expectations of modern shoppers. A statement within the application confirmed the existing building suffers from operational limitations that compromise customer service.
This is not the first time Lidl has sought permission for this project. City of Wolverhampton Council had previously approved a very similar plan in March 2022, but that permission has now lapsed, necessitating a fresh application.
Key Features of the New Development
The proposed "comprehensive redevelopment" promises several significant improvements for the area. The new supermarket design would feature a more efficient layout, leading to a 9% increase in the net sales area despite a smaller overall building footprint. This will allow Lidl to offer a broader range of products.
Parking is also set for a major upgrade. The number of spaces will jump from 136 to 155, and the plans include dedicated spaces for electric vehicles and cycles. This expansion was partly made possible by the council's separate approval earlier this year to demolish the derelict, 127-year-old former Swan pub adjoining the site for additional car parking.
Broader Benefits for Bilston
According to Lidl's application, the project will extend beyond the store itself. The entrance to the site will be improved for people travelling into Bilston town centre. The company also states that the new building will "markedly improve the visual amenity" of that part of the High Street, contributing to the overall vitality and attractiveness of the town centre.
It is worth noting that the current proposal has been refined from the 2022 version. Plans for two additional retail units next to the site's McDonald's have now been removed from the application.
In a related development, City of Wolverhampton Council has also recently granted Lidl permission for another new store in the nearby Parkfields area. This project, approved in September, will see the former Gills sausage factory and abattoir demolished to make way for a supermarket, a 110-space car park, and up to 17 new homes.
