Discounter To Take On Kendal Homebase Unit

Kendal's Homebase store is to close next month and Lidl will take over the unit.

In November 2020, Lidl submitted a panning request to South Lakeland District Council in relation to the Homebase unit, requesting, "Refurbishment and external alterations to the existing store and other associated works to provide a discount food store". Permission was granted the following month, but Homebase confirmed it had no plans to close.

At the time, Homebase store manager Rob Connolly told local press: “We’re delighted to confirm our store isn’t closing, despite claims in recent news reports. We’ve been open in Kendal for 15 years and I’m lucky to have such an experienced and knowledgeable team, many who have been here since the store opened. And as an essential retailer, we’re working hard to ensure we create a safe shopping environment for everyone.”

Nearly eighteen months later, in May 2022, Homebase announced its closure, and local press reported that Lidl had submitted further planning applications relating to the site, including an alcohol retail license request.

The store will close on 14th August and Lidl is expected to commence works in the autumn.

Source : Insight DIY and local press linked within text (Lanc Live and The Westmoreland Gazette)

Image : Jonny Essex / Shutterstock.com

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