Some of you said that a larger Lidl store is not needed and others asked what would happen with the existing store. Some people asked if the project was financially viable due to the seasonal nature of the town. The existing Lidl store is almost 25 years old and can’t keep up with growing customer demand. The development is viable and the proposals represent the only way to secure Lidl’s long-term future in Caister. The new store would be up to a third larger and designed to the latest modern specification, with better sustainability credentials. If approved, the existing store would close once the new store opens and the Council has stipulated that the building must be occupied by a single operator, rather than split into smaller units.
Impact on the local highways network, as well as accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists were key questions raised. The site is easily accessible by public transport, with bus stops close to the site entrance, and existing safe cycleways/ pedestrian footpaths are available to reach the store on foot and bicycle. As a result of feedback, the proposed signalised pedestrian crossing has been moved to the southern arm of the roundabout. Around 80% of traffic would already be traveling on the highway network and would divert into the development. The Transport Assessment submitted as part of the planning application concludes that the development would have a minimal impact on the highways network.
Some people mentioned existing parking issues, especially when there is an event at Yarmouth Stadium. The development has been designed to include sufficient car parking and there would be no need for visitors to park on surrounding streets. There would be a 90-minute time restriction on the Lidl car park, ensuring enough spaces are available for shoppers.
As part of the Transport Assessment, car parking requirements at the stadium have been assessed and considered. The proposals include stadium overspill parking with 295 spaces. Car parking surveys and liaison with the stadium show that, even on busier event days, the car parking is sufficient and there shouldn’t be any off-site parking.
A Flood Risk Assessment has been submitted as part of the planning application. Lidl is working closely with the Lead Local Flood Authority and the Environment Agency on attenuation and drainage solutions to ensure that the risk of flooding elsewhere will not be increased as a result of the development.
