New Lidl store could be built on old council site

Supermarket chain Lidl has written to residents of a Surrey town regarding proposals to build a new store which would create about 40 jobs.

The discount retailer is canvassing for local opinion ahead of submitting an application for planning permission to build the store near Montgomery Road in Woking.

A letter sent to residents states that the new store, which would be at the old Surrey County Council Quadrant Court site, would bring improvements to local highway infrastructure, but support for the idea among residents is tempered by concerns over the potential impact on traffic.

Lidl said it was encouraging residents to "help shape our plans for this new store".

Local resident Valerie Hockham told BBC Radio Surrey: "I'd like it personally. The only thing I'm worried about is the roadworks.

"It's a busy road anyway, so I'm a bit concerned that it's going to get even worse."

Fellow resident George Hutchison added: "I've put in an objection. The traffic jams are going to be impossible.

"We don't need more supermarkets; we need more accommodation."

As part of the prospective scheme, Lidl has promised to improve existing pedestrian crossing points and to erect a new bus shelter in York Road.

James Mitchell, regional head of property at Lidl GB, said: "The new store would increase local shopping choice in a convenient location and create around 40 new jobs, while Lidl would work closely with Surrey County Council to improve local highway infrastructure as part of the development."

On Tuesday, the retailer also confirmed plans to open 19 stores across England over the next eight weeks, creating up to 640 jobs.

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