An ageing Lidl supermarket in Bilston, described by the retailer itself as "poor quality and outdated," is set to be demolished and replaced with a brand new store. City of Wolverhampton Council has granted planning permission for the comprehensive redevelopment of the site on Bilston High Street, near the existing McDonald's restaurant.
Outdated Store "Falling Short of Modern Standards"
In its application, the German discount chain stated the current store was "falling short of modern standards" and suffered from operational limitations that compromised customer service. The proposed "comprehensive redevelopment" aims to deliver a modern, fit-for-purpose retail unit that will offer a broader product range and improved layout.
The council's planners had initially backed a similar demolition and rebuild plan in March 2022, but that permission expired. The newly approved scheme refines the earlier proposal, removing plans for two additional retail units next to the McDonald's but increasing the sales area within the new supermarket by 9%.
Boost for Parking and Town Centre Regeneration
A significant part of the project involves enhancing parking provision. Earlier this year, the council approved the demolition of the derelict, 127-year-old former Swan pub adjoining the site to create extra spaces. The total number of parking bays will rise from 136 to 155, including dedicated spaces for electric vehicles and cycles.
Lidl argues the project will deliver "wider regenerative benefits" for Bilston town centre. The application highlights that the new building will improve the visual appeal of the western end of the High Street and enhance the entrance for those travelling into the centre, thereby boosting the area's overall vitality and attractiveness.
Second Major Lidl Project for Wolverhampton
This is not the only major investment by Lidl in the Wolverhampton area. In a separate project, City of Wolverhampton Council also gave permission in September for the chain to build a new store and 17 new homes on the site of the former Gills sausage factory and abattoir in nearby Parkfields.
That development, on the edge of Birmingham New Road and Parkfield Road, will see the factory demolished to make way for a supermarket creating 40 new jobs, a 110-space car park, and a mix of one-to-four-bedroom houses.
The approval for the Bilston store signifies a substantial upgrade for local shopping facilities, with Lidl committing to a more efficient and customer-friendly design that aims to better serve the community.
