Lidl has received approval from the City of Wolverhampton Council to demolish its outdated Bilston High Street store and construct a new, modern supermarket. The current store has been described by Lidl as “poor quality and outdated,” falling short of today’s retail standards.
The proposed redevelopment is a comprehensive plan that not only replaces the existing facility but also enhances the entrance to Bilston town centre, improving the overall customer experience. This move comes after a previous planning permission, granted in March 2022, expired.
In addition to the new supermarket, the council has approved Lidl’s plans to demolish the adjoining derelict Swan pub, a 127-year-old building, to create additional parking spaces. The number of parking bays will increase from 136 to 155, with new provisions for electric vehicle charging and bicycle parking.
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Lidl’s application emphasized the need to overcome the limitations of the current store’s design, which compromises service quality. The redevelopment will expand the net sales area by 9%, offering a broader product range and better internal circulation, while actually reducing the building’s overall footprint—an efficient use of space that improves operational flow and customer convenience.
The latest proposal has removed plans to build two new retail units near the site’s McDonald’s, included in the 2022 approval, streamlining the project. The redevelopment aims to significantly uplift the visual appeal of the site and revitalize the western end of the High Street, contributing positively to Bilston town centre’s vitality and attractiveness.
Separately, the council also approved Lidl’s plans to build a new store with 17 homes on the former Gills sausage factory site in nearby Parkfields. This project will create 40 new jobs and a 110-space car park, further expanding Lidl’s presence and investment in the area.