THE DEVELOPERS behind the new Lidl store in Christchurch have said that the supermarket is expected to open in September this year.

Work on the town’s second Lidl store at Christchurch Retail Park off Barrack Road started back in January this year, after Homebase scaled down its premises to allow space for the discount supermarket chain.

The new store, which will be around 1,700 sq m, will include the full range of Lidl amenities and is said to create around 40 full and part time jobs.

In order for work to begin on the new Lidl store, the floorspace used by Homebase will have dropped from just under 6,000 sqm to 3,600 sqm.

A spokesperson for Orchard Street Investment Management, who have been contracted the development work, said: “Following the successful downsize and refurbishment of the Homebase at Christchurch Retail Park which reopened in December 2020, Lidl will be taking a 18,500 sq. ft supermarket store which will include the full Lidl offer and an in-store baker.

“It is targeted for opening in September 2021.”