Councillor in protest against Lidl Anchorsholme property demolitions

A Blackpool councillor is planning to stage a protest against Lidl's 'disgraceful' plans to demolish two houses in Anchorsholme.
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A Blackpool councillor is planning to stage a protest against Lidl’s “disgraceful” plans to demolish two houses in Anchorsholme

Coun Tony Williams said the supermarket giant’s plan to flatten the homes was “disrespectful” to neighbours.

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Number two Cherrywood Avenue and six Anchorsholme Lane West, both owned by Lidl, are set for demolition between June 7 and July 16, if planning permission is given.

Lidl plans to demolish two houses in Anchorsholme next to its supermarket for "redevelopment." Photo: Daniel Martino for JPI MediaLidl plans to demolish two houses in Anchorsholme next to its supermarket for "redevelopment." Photo: Daniel Martino for JPI Media
Lidl plans to demolish two houses in Anchorsholme next to its supermarket for "redevelopment." Photo: Daniel Martino for JPI Media

The tenants were evicted earlier this month, and now Lidl wants to “redevelop the residential units,” although it did not specify what would replace them when asked.

Coun Williams said: “I’m looking at planning a protest because there’s no good reason whatsoever why two perfectly good houses should be demolished, especially during a housing crisis. They are really nice houses in a desirable location and it’s nothing short of disrespectful to the people who live in Anchorsholme.”

Coun Williams also criticised the supermarket for previously demolishing properties next to its store in Bloomfield Road, Blackpool, before failing to develop the land and leaving it an eyesore.

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Last year, planners threw out Lidl’s bid to demolish the Anchorsholme homes to extend its car park by 22 spaces to meet customer demand.

Demolition notices have been placed on number two Cherrywood Avenue and six Anchorsholme Lane West, both of which are owned by Lidl.Demolition notices have been placed on number two Cherrywood Avenue and six Anchorsholme Lane West, both of which are owned by Lidl.
Demolition notices have been placed on number two Cherrywood Avenue and six Anchorsholme Lane West, both of which are owned by Lidl.

The council feared the scheme would damage the character of the area, and concluded that not enough evidence was put forward to prove the existing 81 spaces were insufficient.

A spokesman for Lidl said: “It has always been our intention to redevelop the site in Anchorsholme. We have worked closely with the former tenants to help relocate them to new accommodation, providing them with support throughout the process.

It has always been our intention to redevelop the site in Anchorsholme. We are still considering our plans and will share any further information with local residents as soon as we are in a position to do so.

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"We will continue to work with the local council regarding our new planning application and look forward to receiving a decision in due course.”

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