A committee said the development would ‘fail to reinforce or create a positive sense of place and distinctiveness’
A look at what the Lidl store in Northfield could look like if plans are approved. Taken from planning application
A Birmingham MP was ‘disappointed’ after a planning committee voted against a new Lidl last month.
The retail chain had lodged plans to bulldoze part of Northfield Shopping Centre and replace the former Wilko site.
Other proposals included a new pedestrian walkway and ‘associated public realm improvements’ to connect Victoria Common and Bristol Road South.
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One reason behind the refusal was that the proposed development ‘would fail to reinforce or create a positive sense of place and local distinctiveness’.
A different reason in the planning application was that the appearance and car parking arrangement ‘would adversely affect the character of the local area’.
However, Northfield MP Laurence Turner revealed plans are not over and the supermarket chain is engaging with both Turner and Northfield Councillor Esther Rai.
Making the argument for a new Lidl in Northfield, Turner said it would create more jobs and be ‘an improvement to the appearance of the high street’.
On Facebook, MP Laurence Turner said: “Councillor Esther Rai and I met Lidl this afternoon.
“We are both disappointed that the application was refused, as we know how much this and of the high street needs rejuvenating.
“The company are thinking about their options following the decision, but they still want to engage with us about the scheme.
“We had a positive conversation about working with community groups, the appearance of the store, and making sure that access to Victoria Common doesn’t become a cut-through for off-road vehicles.
“While all schemes can be improved, we are clear that we want the investment to go ahead, with jobs created, more grocery options for families, and improvement to the appearance of the high street at the old Wilko site.
“We will share more information when it is available.”