New Lidl store set to create 40 new jobs in Sunderland

Manchester-based firm Rapleys has applied to the city’s council to create a new Lidl store on land south of North Hylton Road, Southwick Industrial Estate.

The vacant site was part of the former Arriva Ford dealership.

As well as having an in-store bakery, the proposed discount foodstore would have 135 car parking spaces, including eight dedicated disabled spaces, four family and child spaces and two electric vehicle charging points, together with 10 cycle parking spaces and storage provision.

New landscaping will be provided surrounding the site to “improve the general visual amenity” of the area.

Those submitting the proposals say 40 full and part-time jobs will be available should the store be built.

Lidl now has more than 600 stores across the UK.

Partner at Rapleys, Richard Huteson, said: “The application site benefits from good accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists as well as public transport. Pedestrian pathways are provided along North Hylton Road.

“The development proposal includes the provision of a new priority junction to the south of North Hylton Road through the existing westbound bus lay-by.

“The westbound bus stop will be re-located to the east of the access and will include a modern bus shelter with timetable information.”

A decision over the plans, which are available to view on Sunderland City Council’s planning portal, is expected to be made in April by councillors.