Local residents and community groups have voiced renewed opposition to Lidl’s latest planning application for a supermarket on London Road. The proposal, submitted under reference 25/01403/FUL, marks yet another attempt to build on this sensitive site — a location that has previously seen similar applications opposed and ultimately withdrawn.
The application, now under consideration by Bath and North East Somerset Council, outlines plans for the construction of a supermarket with associated car parking, landscaping, and new access for both vehicles and pedestrians. The site lies to the north-east of the Lambridge Training Ground on London Road West — a green and prominent approach to the city that holds significant environmental and visual value.
Community members argue that this development would add further pressure to one of Bath’s busiest roads, create increased congestion, and undermine the viability of local independent businesses. Many are also concerned about the loss of biodiversity and the erosion of one of the last remaining green gateways into the World Heritage city.
“This proposal is not new in spirit — it’s a repeat of what has already been rejected by the community. The site simply isn’t suitable for a development of this scale. It would bring more traffic, threaten small businesses, and permanently damage the natural character of the city’s eastern entrance”, added leader of the BaNES Council Green Group, Cllr Joanna Wright.
The public can view and comment on the application through the council’s planning portal.
The Green councillors are encouraging residents who care about Bath’s future to comment and object online.