Support for plans to create new Halifax supermarket and drive-thru coffee shop
People are so far backing plans for a new supermarket and drive-thru coffee shop in Halifax.
The proposals for a new Lidl store and drive-thru coffee shop on Skircoat Road, where the bus depot used to be, have so far attracted a unanimous thumbs up from those who have commented on Calderdale Council’s planning portal.
And although only 9.7 per cent responded to 12,500 leaflets delivered to people living around the proposed site asking for their views, 82 per cent of those – 1,000 people – said they were in favour.
The Courier revealed the Lidl proposals – which the firm say would create up to 40 new jobs and regenerate a vacant, brownfield site – last year.
The planning application was published on Calderdale Council’s website this week and so far eight people have commented – all in favour.
One said: “We would like the new Lidl to go ahead because we don't have a supermarket that serves Skircoat and Savile Park.”
A statement submitted with the planning application said there were a large number of comments raising highways and access concerns from the people who responded to the public consultation.
The statement says a transport assessment prepared to accompany the application “demonstrates that the proposals will deliver a safe and suitable access, that the proposal would not result in any significant adverse impacts on the local highway network, and that the proposal would result in an improvement on the existing situation on the local highway network”.
"Lidl and their project team will continue to engage with the local community throughout the planning application process,” it adds.
A heritage assessment submitted with the planning bid says the bus depot closed in 2024 and an application was submitted for the demolition of the majority of the depot buildings.
"The majority of the buildings within the site have been demolished at time of writing,” says the assessment.
According to the planning application, the new store and coffee shop would be open between 8am and 10pm Monday to Saturday and 10am until 4pm on Sundays and bank holidays.
People have until February 10 to comment on the planning application before it will be considered and decided on.