Aldi and Lidl clash over local support for Horncastle store plans

Aldi’s proposal to open a store in Horncastle has received backing from the local community, with nearly 900 expressions of support submitted in favour of the application.

Planning permission for a new Aldi store on the outskirts of Horncastle in Lincolnshire was withdrawn in July this year after a High Court judge ruled that East Lindsey District Council failed to consider separate plans for a Lidl store in its decision.

Lidl launched a High Court challenge after the council approved Aldi’s store plans, without evaluating Lidl’s competing proposal.

The delays have left Horncastle residents without access to a discount food store.

Aldi’s proposal, which is ready to go ahead pending planning approval, is said to create up to 40 full-time jobs and offer EV charging points.

In addition to the proposed Aldi store, there are plans for a wider development that would include a 24-hour petrol station, rest and welcome facilities, WC amenities and a Tourist Information Hub.

These elements are part of the overall development and will require a separate planning application.

Lidl has responded, expressing frustration with the delays but maintaining that their proposal also has significant local support.

The company hopes to receive approval for its plans, which they say would bring a multimillion-pound investment and create around 40 new jobs in the area.

Mark Stringer, real estate director for Aldi, said: “Our Horncastle scheme represents a significant investment in the community and sets a new standard for retail development in the area. We believe our proposal delivers greater benefits and a more comprehensive solution than Lidl’s plans.

“Our recent canvassing exercise speaks volumes, with almost 900 formal expressions of support for our application. This highlights the importance of a local democratic decision. Our focus remains on delivering a development that will positively contribute to Horncastle and strengthen its local economy. We invite the community to review our proposal and see firsthand the numerous advantages it offers.”

A spokesperson for Lidl said: “It is disappointing to hear suggestions that we aimed to cause delays, as this is not the case. East Lindsey District Council must carry out proper due diligence to ensure applications are determined equally. We’ve submitted our plans and look forward to hearing the planning committee’s decision. Our proposal received overwhelming public support during consultation, with hundreds of responses in favour. If approved, it would transform the area with a multi-million-pound investment and create around 40 new jobs upon opening.”

The ongoing legal and planning process means the future of Horncastle’s retail landscape is still to be decided.