Plans for a new Lidl store in Cradley Heath have been approved, despite claims the development could damage trade in the town centre.

Objectors spoke out at last night’s planning committee meeeting

They claimed that the development on a former print works was too far outside the town centre to benefit other traders.

But members of the planning committee unanimously backed plans to develop the store on the former site of Cradley Print Limited, in Lower High Street, subject to conditions including revised 8am-9pm opening times. 

The 13,000 sq ft food store with a 79-space car park is expected to bring around 30 jobs to the town.

Objector Peter Griffi gave a speech claiming the development could be the downfall of Cradley Heath.

He said the discount supermarket could help local traders, but only if it moved to a central site. He added: “They would destroy what is left of the town, they would destroy what is left of the market if they move to that location.”

He and other objectors want Lidl to move to the site of the former Kwik Save Store in High Street Cradley Heath.

Cradley Heath and Old Hill Councillor Ann Shackleton said: “While I and most of the residents welcome the development the availability of suitable sites has not been fully explored.”