A crucial licensing hearing next month will determine whether a new Lidl supermarket in Wolverhampton will be permitted to sell alcohol, following objections from police and public health officials.
Licensing Concerns and Proposed Conditions
The application from the discount supermarket chain, for a licence to sell alcohol between 7am and 11pm daily, will be reviewed by the City of Wolverhampton Council's licensing committee on 8 January 2025. Council licensing officers initially stated that Lidl's submission contained "insufficient information" to properly address their worries.
Both the police and the council have expressed a desire to reach an agreement with the retailer to ensure licensing objectives are met and the licence does not negatively impact the community. A significant concern from public health officials relates to the sale of high-strength alcohol. Given that Wolverhampton has one of the highest alcohol-specific mortality rates in the country, they want conditions imposed to prevent single cans of super-strength beer or cider from being sold, restricting them to multi-packs of four or more.
Redevelopment of Former Gills Factory Site
The new store is part of a larger redevelopment on Parkfield Road, on the site of the former FA Gills sausage factory and abattoir. The business was sold in 2023 and operations ceased. The local authority granted planning permission for the project in October, approving plans to demolish the old factory to make way for the supermarket and a 110-space car park.
The scheme, submitted by Lidl, also includes plans for up to 17 new homes, ranging from one to four bedrooms, and is expected to create around 40 new jobs. In its planning statement, Lidl said the development would bring a vacant brownfield site back into use, provide affordable housing, and bring inward investment to the area.
What Happens Next?
The outcome of the 8 January hearing is now pivotal for the store's opening plans. The committee must balance the economic benefits of the new development—including jobs and housing—against the statutory duty to promote public health and prevent crime. A decision is expected shortly after the hearing concludes.
