New West Lothian Lidl granted alcohol licence a year before opening

New West Lothian Lidl Granted Alcohol Licence a Year Before Opening

A new Lidl store in Craigshill has been granted a provisional licence to sell alcohol. The West Lothian Licensing Board heard this week that the new store is expected to be open for business by the end of October next year. Lawyers representing the supermarket mentioned that the new supermarket would create around 40 full-time jobs.

The Board was informed that the site of the new supermarket, located at 1 Almond Road, was previously a car showroom, which has been cleared and is now undergoing preparatory building work. Clerk to the Board Gary McMullen stated during the meeting that there had been no objections or adverse comments to the application for a provisional licence.

An agent for the supermarket chain, which already has premises on Alderstone Road in the town close to the Livingston FC stadium, informed the Board of the progress: “You may have seen that work has started. The initial stages are now underway. All being well, the projected opening date is the end of October next year and the expectation is that the supermarket will create the equivalent of 40 full-time jobs.”

The agent further explained, “This is an additional facility aimed at servicing local residents of Craigshill and Mid and East Calder. The proposal is for a supermarket with 63.5sqm all year round for alcohol display and an additional facility around Christmas time, which will then be removed. It is 5% of the overall sales area all year round and just over 5% with the additional area at Christmas time, consistent with what they do across the country. Alcohol is displayed in the aisle at the furthest point from the entrance to the premises.”

Chairing the meeting, Councillor Tony Boyle commented, “Given there has been no adverse comment or objection, I would move that we approve.” Councillors agreed on the decision.

The new Lidl store in West Lothian is set to provide a convenient shopping option for local residents, with the added benefit of job creation for the community. The supermarket’s plans to offer alcohol sales within the store, especially during the festive season, reflect a strategic approach to meeting customer needs and enhancing the shopping experience.

Have you ever anticipated the opening of a new store in your area? How do you think the addition of a supermarket like Lidl could benefit the local community?

Insights and Summary:
The granting of an alcohol licence to the new Lidl store in West Lothian signifies progress and economic growth for the region. The creation of job opportunities and the strategic approach to offering alcohol sales are expected to cater to the needs of local residents. This development showcases the ongoing expansion and investment in the retail sector, contributing positively to the community’s well-being and convenience.