2 weeks Ago
Plans for a new Lidl store in Risca have been submitted after a lengthy pre-application consultation period. The proposal involves with landscaping and additional works on a 3.178-acre greenfield site off Commercial Street and the B4591.
This site is surrounded by residential and retail areas to the north, vegetation and roads to the east, the Ebbw River to the south, and a brownfield/public right of way to the west. The new development aims to enhance connections for pedestrians and cyclists and improve access to public transport. However, the project also involves relocating an existing bus stop to facilitate better access to the site, something that was announced.
The scheme includes a retail unit with a gross internal area of 1,962 square metres and 112 parking spaces, which will accommodate accessible, parent/child, and electric vehicle spaces. The site will also have a dedicated delivery access route from Commercial Street. For safety, a pedestrian-only walkway will be installed, and the open layout of the site will provide natural surveillance.
Landscaping, developed with a landscape architect, will be incorporated to mitigate the visual impact from the roadside and maintain screening. The main vehicular access to the site will be from the B4591, with deliveries using a separate entrance on Commercial Street. The development prioritises access by walking and cycling, with provisions for secure bicycle parking and connections to the public right of way.
The site is within a 5-minute walk of bus stops, facilitating public transport use. In terms of sustainability, the store will feature 180.2kWp photovoltaic panels for renewable energy generation.
The design also includes low-energy lighting, energy-efficient appliances, and the use of highly rated construction materials. All waste from the store will be managed in conjunction with delivery logistics and transported to a Regional Distribution Centre for sorting and recycling. The new Lidl store is expected to create up to 40 full/part-time jobs, with a focus on hiring locally.
The store also aims to provide affordable goods and improve retail options for residents. During the construction phase, the store pledges to engage with the local community, in line with the Considerate Constructors Scheme. The development has been designed to follow "Secure by Design" guidance, aiming to deter anti-social behaviour through natural surveillance, well-lit paths, and open views across the site.
The application was validated on Wednesday, March 19 and is currently awaiting a final decision from the council..
