BUDGET supermarket Lidl and 35 affordable homes will be coming to Chippenham, despite safety concerns.

Greensquare Homes, Lidl UK and Middlefield SUV submitted a joint application for 35 affordable homes and a new Lidl store to be built on land at Hungerdown Lane and Bristol Road, and planning permission was granted at a northern area planning

committee meeting last Wednesday (May 16).

Councillors stated that there was a need for a budget supermarket in Chippenham, and that there is a lack of affordable homes in the town.

A large number of conditions have been put in place along with the planning permission in response to concerns raised about noise and traffic levels.

But Chippenham town councillor Nina Phillips is still concerned about the safety of pedestrians and congestion in the areas of Bristol Road, Hungerdown Lane and Middlefield Road.

She said: “The offering is generally welcome, but it is the access and egress that is positively dangerous and insufficient for the amount of traffic travelling on the roads, and people walking the pavements and footpaths while taking their lives in their hands.”

During the meeting, Cllr Toby Sturgis, commented: “There is traffic congestion at times, but it is only at times.

“I think it will be a great asset to Chippenham, not only housing but the discount store which doesn’t compete with the town centre.”

Also commenting on the approval, Lidl UK’s regional head of property Glen Stidever said: “We could not be more delighted to have received planning permission, and look forward to getting started on construction.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the local community for their continued support, and look forward to opening our doors and offering our fresh, quality, great value products in the not too distant future.”