Home / Environment / Lidl Store Delayed by Reptile Concerns
Lidl Store Delayed by Reptile Concerns
1 May
Summary
- Lidl store plans in Ramsgate face delays due to reptile habitat concerns.
- Surveys from 2014-2020 recorded common lizards on the proposed site.
- Over 300 residents supported the development for jobs and cost relief.
Plans for a new Lidl supermarket in the UK coastal town of Ramsgate have been delayed due to concerns about the presence of reptiles. The proposed store, slated for Manston Road, will not proceed to planning approval immediately, with a decision now expected on May 20.
The hold-up stems from environmental surveys conducted between 2014 and 2020, which identified the potential habitat of common lizards on the site. These reptiles are legally protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, making disturbance illegal.
Developers have agreed to allocate over £80,000 for a compensation strategy and mitigation plan to protect the species. This measure was requested by Kent County Council's biodiversity team to address environmental impacts.
Despite the ecological considerations, the supermarket proposal enjoys substantial public support. Approximately 300 residents have backed the scheme, citing anticipated benefits such as job creation and relief from rising living costs. The planned 23,000 sq ft store would also feature parking, EV charging, and solar panels, creating about 40 jobs.
