A LONG-running family business in Christchurch is set to move from its premises in Somerford Road to make way for the low-cost supermarket, Lidl.

Purewell Electrical will be moving out of its expansive warehouse site in the next two years to make way for the budget food store once it submits a planning application to Christchurch Borough Council.

The electrical superstore, which has been at the Somerford Road premises since 2001, was founded by the Griffiths family in 1955 and is set to relocate to two new and as yet unknown premises in Christchurch, one an engineering and repair centre and the other a new showroom.

Ian Griffiths, managing director, said: "This is good news for us.

"Due to the opening of our two shops in Beales in Bournemouth and Poole, we've found it makes sense to relocate the warehouse and separate it from our showroom in Christchurch.

"The necessity of having the warehouse and the showroom on the same site had already started to become a question for me, even before Lidl approached us, but this move is a benefit to us and will secure the future of the business.

"Although this is a difficult time for some traders, Purewell Electrical tends to do quite well during these periods due to our loyal customer base and the standard of service we provide.

"During the last seven years, we have built our brand significantly and this will ensure we continue to grow and expand while retaining our individuality."

He added: "We will open a large shop near to our existing store in Christchurch and the warehouse will almost certainly be in the borough so I am expecting all our staff to come with us."

A spokesperson for Lidl said: "We have been looking to build a store in Christchurch as part of our ongoing expansion programme throughout the UK.

"The proposed site will be ideally situated to serve the needs of residents living in and around Christchurch, bringing jobs and investment, as well as a much-needed alternative discount store."

On Thursday, local residents will have a chance to comment on the supermarket plans at a public open day at High Cross Church in Amethyst Road from 11am to 7pm.