War of the supermarkets could break out in north Sheffield if new branches of Aldi and Lidl are given green light

The war of the supermarkets has broken out in north Sheffield, with both Aldi and Lidl hoping to open new branches in that part of the city.
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While shoppers love a bargain, big name stores and retail parks are becoming increasingly concerned about the competition in Sheffield 6.

Next week councillors will decide on plans for an Aldi opposite the Sheffield Wednesday ground on Penistone Road and a Lidl at Malin Bridge - less than two miles apart.

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There’s already a number of supermarkets in the area, including the new Jack’s store at Kilner Way, Lidl and Sainsbury’s on Halifax Road, Asda at Catch Bar Lane, Morrisons on Penistone Road, Tesco on Infirmary Road, Aldi on Flora Street and Hillsborough shopping precinct.

A new Aldi is planned for Hillsborough, just a couple of miles from where a new Lidl could be built in Malin BridgeA new Aldi is planned for Hillsborough, just a couple of miles from where a new Lidl could be built in Malin Bridge
A new Aldi is planned for Hillsborough, just a couple of miles from where a new Lidl could be built in Malin Bridge

Major retailers have objected to the new Aldi and Lidl in a planning report.

Killultagh Estates, the freeholder of Hillsborough Exchange shopping centre, says since the centre was developed in 1988 there’s been a lack of investment and it’s now unsuitable for modern retailers and unattractive to customers.

There are outline plans to revitalise the centre and create 77 apartments which Killultagh says is £10m of much needed new investment to ensure its long term viability.

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But it fears retailers will be lured away to the new Aldi site or it will be in direct competition with Hillsborough shops.

Morrisons says many retailers are facing “fragile conditions” and in recent years footfall has fallen, particularly due to Aldi, Sainsbury’s and Lidl.

It’s large store anchors the district centre, generating footfall for other shops and services, but there are particular difficulties as it’s based in the listed Hillsborough Barracks which means there are unique costs and operational challenges.

Asda has also objected saying its stores at Catch Bar Lane and Chaucer Road are important anchors within those neighbourhoods.

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And there are complaints from Stocksbridge Regeneration Company, who are responsible for Fox Valley, and the Derwent Group which looks after Kilner Way retail park.

Planning officers disagree though and say there’s no evidence that shops are suffering or that the new Aldi and Lidl would affect their trade.

They are advising councillors to approve the two stores at a meeting on Tuesday, January 28.