New Lidl store bringing 40 jobs to Burntwood is given thumbs up - despite objections

The discount supermarket chain received unanimous approval from Lichfield District Council’s planning committee for its proposal to build a new branch on land to the rear of the former Bridge Cross Garages off Cannock Road, Chase Terrace on Monday.

The application had been recommended for approval by council officers ahead of the planning committee meeting. A previous application to build a three-storey 78-bed care home on the site was refused permission by the council in 2022 and appeal against the decision was dismissed last year.

The authority received two objections to the proposed store from members of the public. 

Resident Liam Perry said: “Burntwood doesn’t need another supermarket when there are already two at different price points, many others in a small radius, and the progression towards online shopping.

“We certainly don’t need another huge expanse of tarmac. This Lidl would only further prove the intention for Burntwood to become a retirement town for people who can no longer afford Lichfield.”

But on Monday Councillor Diane Evans said: “This is welcomed by most people. It is an important development which is going to provide extra and slightly different things to the other supermarkets in the area.”

She questioned whether seven parking spaces for disabled customers would be sufficient however. And she also highlighted how busy the proposed access to the store already was, as it also served McDonald’s and Morrisons branches and there was also a St Giles’ Hospice shop, restaurant and gym nearby.

“I hope we have something in that will ensure that the island in future is well-maintained because it was in a very bad state”, she said. “It was done up but it didn’t last very long at all and it is again in a bad state.

“I’m concerned about pedestrians and cyclists going round there. We owe it to people to make sure everything processes safely – a lot of people walk round that island.”

Councillor David Salter said he was “rather surprised – perhaps a little disappointed – to see that in a car park of 125 spaces there are only two electric points”. And Councillor Thomas Marshall asked what measures were being taken to support biodiversity.

Councillor Michael Galvin said: “On the whole, with regards to the investment with regards to the investment of this shop in Burntwood, It’s welcomed and there is a lot of excitement at the Lidl store being there. There’s also excitement around the bakery – I haven’t experienced Lidl bakery but I look forward to it.”

A new Lidl is being built in Walsall Wood on the site of the former Horse & Jockey public house in Walsall Road.