Lidl is given planning permission to open new store in Segensworth by Fareham councillors

Forty new jobs will be created after plans for a new Lidl supermarket were approved.

The discount store will replace the former Hampshire County Council depot site at the junction of Southampton Road and Cartwright Drive in Segensworth.

Although the proposals were unanimously approved by the planning committee at Fareham Borough Council on Wednesday, concerns surrounding traffic were raised.

Roy Roberts, a resident of Titchfield Common, told councillors that the advantages of convenience “do not outweigh the serious disadvantages”.

He said the already busy St Margaret’s Roundabout next to the site will suffer as a result of the plans.

He said: “An obvious problem is the current traffic situation at the roundabout, and traffic regularly queues around the roundabout. It can take up to five light changes before traffic can get onto the roundabout from St Margaret’s Lane.

“People are becoming tired and frustrated at the developments that are not matched by infrastructural improvements.”

Fellow resident Robert Badcock objected to the proposals and questioned the demand for the supermarket.

“Is there really a need for another Lidl in the area?” he said, and added: “There are already two other stores in the vicinity, one in Fareham, and the other at Whiteley. If this store is approved, there will be an unacceptable increase in traffic.

“I fear there is potential for an overflow of traffic into St Margarets Lane and into Titchfield Village when congestion occurs.”

But Danielle Cranstone, speaking on behalf of Lidl, said the new store will give people more choice and competition, support sustainable shopping, and it will help residents shop closer to home.

She said: “The scheme offers a large investment in a local community and represents our continued commitment to the Fareham area.”

A consultation undertaken by Lidl last year received 2,746 responses. Of these, 84 per cent supported the plans, and 13 per cent objected, Danielle said.

She added: “This level of response shows strong local interest in a store that would offer affordable, good-quality produce nearby. We hope the benefits of the scheme are clear.”

Cllr Ian Bastable, Conservative ward member for Park Gate, supported the application but said residents living behind the site should be considered.

He said: “I have a great deal of sympathy with the residents behind this site. I think it’s something we need to keep an eye on, that they’re not awoken at ungodly times of day with deliveries to this site.”

The plans were unanimously approved.