MAJOR plans which could see the demolition of existing businesses to construct a new supermarket in Bournemouth have been formally tabled. 

Lidl has finally submitted its planning application to build a new supermarket in Westover Retail Park at the end of Wimborne Road at the junction with Castle Lane West. 

If approved, it would mean the closure and subsequent demolition of existing retail units occupied by Pizza Hut, charity shop Prama, Cotswold camping store and Pets at Home. 

A spokeswoman for Lidl previously told the Echo this would only happen when the existing retail units’ leases expire. 

Bournemouth Echo: CGI of the proposalCGI of the proposal (Image: Lidl)

It follows months of consultation by the budget retailer in which they asked residents nearby for their views on the proposal. 

In a design and access statement, Lidl said: “The site is subject to differing constraints and opportunities.

Read more: Lidl plans could demolish Pizza Hut and Pets at Home in Bournemouth

“Physical constraints include the strong tree belt around the site, alongside the level changes of the topography on and around the site.  

“The houses adjacent and along the boundary have been taken into consideration when doing the design, highlighted with landscaping proposals and boundary treatments. 

Bournemouth Echo: Lidl's proposal Lidl's proposal (Image: Lidl)

“Various design options have been considered to position the store within the site based on the above constraints.  

“The proposed design acknowledges the feature corner position, gateway location and connectivity to the local public area.

Read more: No opening date confirmed for Lidl's West Parley store

Access to the 6,639 sq m site is gained from Wimborne Road and take customers into an 81-space car park, of which six are for the disabled, nine for parents and two for electric vehicles. 

Lidl added: “The car park area has been laid out in central islands to allow easy maneuverability of vehicles and also safe and easy access to and from the proposed store.  

Bournemouth Echo: Westover Retail ParkWestover Retail Park (Image: Daily Echo)

“Vehicle parking spaces provided are generously sized for improved customer access.” 

Lidl also say the 1,210 sq m sales area will include its bakery, longer style tills with dual packaging and customer toilets. 

Up to 40 new and part-time jobs could be created if the new store is built and the new supermarket would be around a mile away from an existing Lidl on Winton high street.