THE announcement that Lidl is planning to open a new store in Deeside has been met largely with positivity from residents and councillors alike.

On Friday, November 26, The leader reported that Flintshire Council has backed the supermarket giant's plans to build a store in Connah's Quay.

Lidl is proposing a significant investment on the site of the former Somerfield/Co-op store, High Street, which will regenerate this prominent, brownfield site and provide a new modern 1,414 sq. m Lidl store, offering improved local choice.

The plans include the replacement of the existing building with a new, energy efficient Lidl store which will include solar panels on the roof and electric vehicle charging points in the car park.

It will also include the refurbishment of the external areas and the existing car park to provide 160 parking spaces.

The news was met with support from our readers.

One user wrote: "At last, a supermarket for the bottom road for Connah's Quay and Shotton. Can't wait for it to open."

A second commented: "Omg, our lovely council has given the thumbs up for the development, thank God. Please get it done as this forgotten town in Flintshire (Connah's Quay) needs a much needed boost!"

A third simply said: "About time."

One person in opposition to the plans, said: "I bet the little shops a few yards up the road are delighted. It's a store full of tat."

Cllr Paul Shotton, who represents the Connah's Quay Golftyn ward, welcomed the plans.

He said: "The news that the German supermarket group LIDL UK are submitting a planning application for a supermarket on the old Somerfield / Co-oP site has been warmly welcomed by the community and it will enhance and offer a better shopping experience for our residents."

Flintshire council leader cllr Ian Roberts, said council officers have 'been in discussion with Lidl for some time to turn this into a reality'.

Flintshire county councillor for Shotton West, cllr Sean Bibby said that he hopes the development can 'address the ongoing issues' with anti social behaviour and vandalism which have taken place on site during the years it has been vacant.

Before a planning application is submitted to Flintshire County Council, Lidl will be consulting with the local community. You can view the draft planning application documents online at connahsquay.expansion.lidl.co.uk.