Sainsbury's objects to Lidl store plan

Sainsbury’s has objected to plans to build a Lidl store stating there is “no need for another supermarket in York”.

Lidl’s planning application stated its multi-million pound investment into the vacant Monks Cross site could create up to 40 jobs and “improve consumer choice”.

The plans stated the development would bring a new discount shopping offering to York, adding “new facilities for local residents could help them save money on their groceries”.

But Sainsbury’s claimed there was not enough evidence to show the new store would not negatively affect neighbouring sites.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the company stated: “There is simply no need for another food store in York, and the impact from the drive-thru is unknown given that the tenant has not been disclosed.”

The plans would see the former TK Maxx off Monks Cross Drive demolished and a new Lidl and drive-thru restaurant built. An operator for the restaurant has not been named.

Huntington Parish Council also objected, stating the existing building should be reused rather than demolished in light of the council’s climate emergency declaration.

The application will go before York Council’s Planning Committee for a decision on Thursday but planning officers have recommended approval.

A consultation carried out on Lidl’s behalf in 2022 received 97 responses, 71 of which said they would support the development.

The site has stood empty since TK Maxx relocated to the east of Monks Cross in 2020.

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