Bath’s MP Wera Hobhouse says she will be writing a formal letter of objection regarding the planning application by Lidl GB for a new store on land the supermarket has purchased beside Bath RFC’s Lambridge training Ground.
In a press statement she said:
“Following the formal planning application’s submission for the proposed Lidl on the London Road, I felt it necessary to outline my opposition to this specific development once more.
I appreciate that Lidl have engaged with residents through a public consultation and I am grateful that the organisation also consulted me on the plans.
However, I still feel that the proposal is one that should not go ahead and I will be submitting a formal letter of objection against the specific development.
“I must stress again, the decision for planning approval lies with the B&NES Council planning committee. As Bath’s MP, my concerns remain, however.
The proposed site which lies along the river has significant biological diversity. It is also located at the gateway into our unique World Heritage City which has two UNESCO accolades. The area surrounding the proposed development is one of low density housing and green spaces and there are no other commercial outlets nearby.
“Protecting our city’s extraordinary heritage and nature sites, as well as the distinctive character of the local area must continue to be ensured. I have not been convinced that these priorities will not be deeply compromised if the specific proposed development were to be given the green light.
“I recognise that the ongoing cost-of-living crisis impacts those on the lowest incomes most acutely. Discount food stores enable people to make real savings in their household budgets. As I have said previously, I am open to working with Lidl, or any other retailer, to ensure that an adequate supply of affordable food is an option for all.”
Meanwhile local Lambridge Green Cllr Joanna Wright has had this to say about the proposal on her Instagram account.
If Lidl get the go ahead in Larkhall it would not surprise me if the grand plan is to close the one on the Lower Bristol Road. As the anchor tenant on that small retail park the other occupiers could be eased out and then some more blocks of flats along the River Avon?