Supermarket expansion plans set for green light

Plans for the expansion of a discount supermarket in Neath are set to be given the green light by councillors.The new store will be almost double the size of the current outlet and is expected to “contribute to the retention of jobs and growth of the local economy”.Lidl has submitted plans to demolish its existing store at Pontardawe and construct a larger replacement on the site.The current supermarket has a gross internal floor area of 17,500 sq ft with a net sales are of 13,800 sq ft. There is parking for 154 cars.The new store will measure a total of 29,600 sq ft with a sales area of 18,200 sq ft as well as a bakery, staff area and warehousing. There will also be a slight increase in the number of parking spaces.As part of the work, the site will also be extended by into the former tin plate works increasing it to 2.5 acres.Lidl said the development would “contribute to the retention of jobs and growth of the local economy”.The proposals will be considered by Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council’s planning committee on 12 April 2016 with a report prepared for the meeting recommending approval.