Excited Hucknall residents have spoken of their "delight" after plans were approved to build a new Lidl on the grounds of the towns football club. Lidl will soon begin construction at Hucknall Football Club, in Watnall Road, after Ashfield District Council granted planning permission on July 20.
The football club will be relocating to a new ground on Aerial Way close to their existing ground. Lidl said the store will allow the club to relocate to an improved, expanded premise and improve the appearance of the area.
The retailer added the supermarket will "deliver improved economic opportunities without the loss of the existing sport facilities; and improve grocery choice and competition for residents of Hucknall".
Residents are also happy with the news. One hopeful resident shared his optimism at a "big name brand" coming to Hucknall, something that he believes the town desperately needs.
Terrence McKenzie, 74, who has lived in Hucknall for more than 30 years, said: "I think it's great news. A lot of people complain that we don't have enough big supermarkets and now we're hopefully going to get one around the corner.
"I love Hucknall. I have lived here for 34 years and it has enough for me to get by.
"The people are all nice, they're wonderful and it has everything I need, I don't need to go too far away for anything. But I think it has too many things we don't need and not enough of what others might need.
"There are too many charity shops and barber shops but big supermarkets are a necessity. I'm delighted."
Ray Moss, 58, said: "I personally don't have any issues with it. I guess some people might be concerned with the size of it but there aren't many homes surrounding it, it's next to a main road, it's good place for it I think.
"Hopefully the club have found somewhere else to move to and if not I hope they find somewhere soon because that's something that means a lot to the football-lovers in Hucknall.
"I don't think that we need the Lidl but I do think big name brands is something that Hucknall needs a lot more of to be honest so yes it's going to do more good than bad. It's in a good location."
Rival supermarket giant Tesco opposed the plans. Tesco suggested Ashfield District Council’s consultant confirmed alternative two sites, the Sandicliffe Ford and Piggins Croft car park, could accommodate the application proposals "in a way that would substantially benefit the health and well-being of the town centre into the long term".
Representatives for Tesco also said "inappropriate weight" was placed upon alleged job creation benefits.
Another local resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: "I worry about the football club, but if they've got a plan in place to go elsewhere and everyone's happy then fair enough.
"Mind you, fans who go to the games might not be happy. You wonder if they've been consulted.
"I think its definitely good for the town though. There aren't many huge supermarkets in Hucknall, especially close to the town centre."
The proposed Lidl store will generate up to 40 new full and part-time jobs, with the company suggesting most of these will go to local people. Lidl expect the store to add £2 million gross value per year to the local economy.
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