The Lidl supermarket in Wells marked its final day of business on Easter Saturday before its planned demolition and subsequent overhaul.

The Strawberry Way outlet shut its operations at midday on March 30, paving the way for a significant redevelopment project aimed at bringing a larger and more contemporary store to the community.

Set to reopen in February 2025, the new Lidl store will expand its net sales floor area from 945 square metres to 1,414 square metres. This expansion follows Lidl GB Ltd.'s successful planning application in March 2022, which proposed not only replacing the existing premises but also extending into the adjacent plot formerly occupied by Travis Perkins.

The forthcoming development will encompass a sales area, warehouse, and ancillary spaces totaling 2,269 square metres. Despite the significant increase in floor space, access will continue through the current entrance on Strawberry Way.

Additionally, the redevelopment will introduce 46 extra parking spots, raising the total to 125. This includes enhancements like additional disabled parking, motorcycle spaces, and the installation of electric vehicle charging stations.

Lidl anticipates that the new establishment will generate up to ten new employment opportunities, primarily part-time. The design will feature eco-friendly elements such as rooftop solar panels, designed to blend seamlessly with the building while optimizing energy production.

The renovated store's architectural aesthetics will align with Lidl's contemporary branding, featuring a mix of grey cladding, white render, and a stone plinth base.

Residents and interested parties are encouraged to refer to planning reference 2022/0273/FUL on the Somerset Council's online planning portal for further information on the project.