Lidl rejected in surprise Rotherham council U-turn

Councillors voted to reject the bid, which was recommended for approval by officers, on the basis of the "detrimental" impact the new store would have on businesses in Swallownest.

The German discount retailer applied to build a supermarket on land off Rotherham Road and demolish the Christ Church building, part of Swallownest Miners Welfare and demolish and replace the Swallownest FC changing rooms.

According to the company, the development would create about 40 jobs.

Some 78 objections were received, including from the Aldi store, which is under construction off Swallow Wood Road, The Co-op, as well as Aston Parish Council. They were concerned over highway safety and the safety of parents and children at the nearby Swallownest Pre-School and Swallownest Primary School.

Swallownest Parish Council objected over pollution from the 2,500 vehicles forecast to visit the supermarket daily, parking and noise for residents in the vicinity, early and late deliveries and the potential for anti-social behaviour on the car park at night.

However, the council’s highway officer and environmental health officer raised no concerns regarding any additional traffic, and said "any increase would not be readily noticeable to residents".

There were 51 comments in support.

Glenn Watts, chairman of the Swallownest FC board of trustees, said it would mean new changing rooms and a new pitch.

However Matthew Parker, owner of Dels Supermarket on High Street, warned if the application were to be approved, he would "probably have to close", and let his 14 staff.

Michelle Davies, on behalf of the applicant, said: "This proposal represents a significant investment by Lidl into the local area and will create 40 full and part time new employment opportunities for local people, as well as associated construction jobs. Capital generated by the scheme will also allow both the current occupiers of the site, the miners welfare club, and Christ Church to further invest in the local community."

Coun Bob Walsh and Coun Michael Elliott abstained due to the number of objections they had received from residents.

Couns Alan Atkin and Robert Bird were the only ones to vote in favour.