Lidl has announced they want to build a new food store on Aylesbury Road, Thame, and is inviting residents to share their views. The site under consideration currently has modern office and warehouse buildings on it, which would be demolished for a Lidl store featuring a sales area, in-store bakery, and car parking for 130 vehicles, including accessible and electric vehicle spaces.
At this stage, it is important to note that no formal planning application has been submitted. Lidl is gathering feedback from the community and key stakeholders, including the Town and District Councils, which they need before they can submit a planning application. This is an opportunity for residents to express their opinions, ask questions, and raise any concerns about the proposal directly with Lidl themselves.
As with any development, a range of factors will be considered during the planning process, including traffic impact, employment opportunities, site suitability, and the effect on local residents and infrastructure. Ultimately, the decision on whether the store goes ahead will be made by the Local Planning Authority, South Oxfordshire District Council.
This is the first step in a process that will require the careful scrutiny of public and technical input before any decisions are made. The Town Council may not, therefore, be able to comment on the proposal ahead of any formal decision.
