Plans formally submitted for new Lidl store at Hucknall football ground

German budget retailer Lidl has submitted plans to Ashfield District Council for a new store on the site of Hucknall Town's Watnall Road ground following a well-received public consultation.

The plans, described as a "multimillion-pound investment for Hucknall", include a new eco-conscious store and 116-space car park, as well as up to 40 new full and part time jobs.

A spokesperson for Lidl said: “The development will deliver a number of significant benefits for the local community, including improved shopping choice, convenience and the creation of new jobs for local people.

“Vehicles will enter and exit the site from a new priority junction on Watnall Road. This will be in the same location as the current, gated entrance to Hucknall Town Football Club.

“A new pedestrian entrance will also be created from Watnall Road, enabling people to walk to and from the store.”

A green light for the plans will allow the football club move to its new ground, clubhouse and changing rooms on Aerial Way, which Lidl is supporting as part of the process.

Among the benefits of the move for the club will be better facilities for the Hucknall Warriors youth team and the chance for the club to have a ladies side.

The move will also allow the club to expand even more its reach in the community.

In a statement, Hucknall FC's chairman Bob Scotney said: "This stadium will be a hub for football and other events within Hucknall and the surrounding area.

“With a range of established teams as well as ideas for future development at the football club, we see this proposal as a positive aspect for the community.

"Not only will the ground enable us to offer a hub for football in Hucknall and beyond, it will be a facility for local people.

"The combination of a brand-new modern Lidl store and what Hucknall Town have to offer will support community progress and growth.

"We hope that the application is a success so we can move forward.”

Ashfield District Council's planning portal states a decision on the supermarket is expected by August 28, 2020.