Multi-million pound store to transform derelict ‘eyesore’
LIDL and Wirral Council have come together to mark the start of construction on the company’s new multi-million pound store in Birkenhead – set to regenerate a derelict local “eyesore”.
Members of Lidl’s development team met with Wirral Council Leader, Cllr Phil Davies, to officially break ground on the development, which will be built on vacant land at the junction of Oxton Road and Balls Road East, close to Borough Road.
The multi-million pound store, which was granted planning permission in October 2015, will deliver a significant financial boost to the town, provide more choice for shoppers and create up to 40 new full and part-time job opportunities for the local area.
Stuart Jardine, Lidl’s Head of Property in the UK, said: “We’ve been interested in bringing a store to Birkenhead for many years and it’s fantastic to see construction finally begin. Once complete, the store will offer local customers our full range of low-cost, high-quality goods and provide a fantastic working environment for our employees.
“Perhaps most importantly, the development will see a key parcel of land, which has stood derelict for a number of years, revitalised and brought back into commercial use.”
Cllr Davies said: “As part of our plans to redevelop our town centres, we are happy to have Lidl join our Birkenhead and Tranmere community. As well as redeveloping a vacant piece of land in an important location, this investment will both generate up to 40 new local jobs and provide families and residents with greater access and choice in buying fresh produce.”
The modern 1,416 sq m net sales store will feature a car park with 127 spaces, including disabled and parent & child spaces, and an in-store bakery. The store is scheduled to open in Spring 2017.
