Knowsley Council has signed off plans for a new Lidl in Kirkby, marking the discount retailer’s first store in the town and advancing the ongoing regeneration of the town centre.

Last year, the council's Cabinet backed proposals for an extra 29,000 sq ft of modern retail space. With planning permission now granted, Lidl can proceed with a scheme on Telegraph Way that includes a 24,000 sq ft supermarket and a second retail unit available to let.

The supermarket will include an in-store bakery and customer toilets. Rooftop solar panels will help power the store, while new trees and shrubs are planned across the site to enhance its appearance.

The location has been designed for easy access, with footpaths and bus connections nearby. Cycle parking will be close to the entrance, and motorists can use the adjoining Kirkby Town Centre short-stay car park and the refurbished multi-storey off Hall Lane. The short-stay car park will also provide six accessible bays, nine parent-and-child spaces and motorcycle parking near the store entrance.

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The multi-million-pound investment is expected to generate around 40 jobs at the new Lidl, with further roles likely once the second unit is let and occupied.

Cllr Tony Brennan, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said: "We've listened to the views of the local community who wanted more retail choice in the town. We worked hard to secure this investment and I'm delighted that Lidl can now proceed with their plans for their first store in Kirkby. The scheme is another step forward for our ambitious development plans for the town and will create job opportunities for local residents.

"I look forward to seeing this scheme progress and we will continue to deliver our development plans for Kirkby, alongside the £19.5m Pride in Place funding which will deliver more community's priorities over the next ten years."

Stuart Jardine, Regional Head of Property at Lidl GB, said: "We're absolutely thrilled to have received the green light from Knowsley Council to bring a new Lidl store to Kirkby. The level of support from the community has been remarkable, and it reinforces our commitment to ensuring that everyone, wherever they live, has access to high-quality food at the best possible prices. We look forward to keeping the community updated as the project progresses."