Construction transforms Brinkworth Road area. New store and country park underway after planning delays.
Workers are now laying the foundations. Large metal containers are gone, and now machinery sits on the site. Fences are up for public safety.
The Lidl project faces some disagreement, as original plans faced multiple delays due to drainage issues with a care home. Despite current progress, debate continues, as approval came in September 2023 and residents express unwanted need for another store.
People worry about Aldi nearby, which is less than a mile away from Lidl. Some fear losses for Sainsbury’s and Iceland, as these stores are in the town center. Lidl will also have a big car park holding 125 spaces with electric vehicle charging available too.
The plan includes a country park that will be 2.15 hectares. Think seating, paths, and boardwalks. There will also be play areas for families and a wildflower meadow is also in the plan.
Lidl’s opening date is not yet known, as the park’s landscaping must finish first. This must happen before Lidl can open doors because Councillor Chuck Berry made it a requirement. He feared the park wouldn’t get built and saw it as a way to sway the council.
Lidl stated the location has good bus access. They say the field lacked a way in for people, and the new park will open space to the public. A Calne councillor likes Lidl’s contribution and applauds them giving back to the community.