Discount supermarket plans for former gym site

Plans have been lodged for the construction of a discount supermarket on the site of a former gym in Leeds.Lidl GB, supported by Lichfields, has submitted a full planning application for the redevelopment of a site at Haworth Lane in Yeadon.The site is currently occupied by a vacant former DW Fitness First building and associated car parking.Planning permission is sought for the demolition of the existing building and construction of a new foodstore with a gross internal area of 22,900 sq ft and net sales area of about 15,200 sq ft.The plans also include 94 car parking spaces, including six disabled spaces, nine parent and child spaces, six staff spaces and two electric vehicle charging points; as well as access, a servicing area and landscaping.The store is expected to create up to 40 full-time equivalent jobs.A planning statement submitted as part of the application said: “The scheme relates to a previously developed site in an edge of centre location, which is conveniently accessible by non-car modes, and would provide a range of sustainability features within the new store.”It will also involve the creation of up to 40 new jobs (FTE) once operational, alongside additional construction related jobs, and enhance existing consumer choice in the area, reducing the need to travel to other foodstores outside of the local area (including by car), and alleviating the pressure on the existing Aldi in Yeadon.”