MP Damien Moore is requesting a meeting with supermarket giant Lidl over the firm’s ambitions for a new venture in Southport.
The Southport Conservative MP has been contacted by numerous local residents and businesses, who have expressed their views and questions over the scheme.
The development, on land off Marine Drive and Crossens Way, would include a Lidl store with a 1,256 sqm sales area, an in-store bakery and 111 car parking spaces. Part of the site would also be developed into eight new business units.
A joint planning application with Saltmarsh Estates is due to be submitted to Sefton Council which would see units range in size from 114 sq m to 234 sq m in size with 38 dedicated parking spaces.
Members of the public have been invited to comment on the proposals through a dedicated website.
Southport MP Damien Moore said: “I have been contacted by a number of local residents and businesses in the area about this planned development by Lidl.
“Some constituents are questioning whether this scheme will be situated in the best location.
“We are trying very hard to make Southport the events capital of the North West.
“We already have huge events including Southport Air Show, Southport Flower Show, Southport Food and Drink Festival and Southport Comedy Festival. More new events, including Comedy in the Park and Southport Smoke and Fire Festival, are already due to take place this year. Over 9 million visitors came to Southport in 2019.
“When big events are taking place, and during the popular bank holiday, Easter and Summer seasons, this area already gets very congested. Marine Drive is one of the major routes in and out of Southport and it gets very busy.
“Some residents have also raised concerns over possible noise and associated aggravation as a result of this.
“I would welcome a discussion with Lidl over the firm’s plans for Southport and the opportunity to raise questions and concerns which were raised by a number of my constituents.
“I am pleased to see that the firm has opened a public consultation with the opportunity for local people to share their views on the proposals.”
Members of the public are invited to comment on the proposed Lidl development via a dedicated website https://www.marinedrive.expansion.lidl.co.uk and through a leaflet which is being delivered to properties in the area.
Residents with questions about the scheme can also call Lidl’s consultation team directly on Freephone number 0800 089 0361.
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