Homebase Cambridge to be subdivided to accommodate Lidl

Budget supermarket chain Lidl is looking to open a new store in Cambridge, taking part of the existing Homebase outlet located on the Cambridge Retail Park, creating up to 40 new jobs.

A spokesman for Lidl said the scheme is at an early stage, but confirmed the popular chain is heading for the city. The German company already has stores in St Neots, Huntingdon and March, and its plans to open in Cambridge could put it in direct competition with rival Aldi.

This is the second Homebase that the grocery discounter has shown interest in, after they announced plans in April to move into the Homebase in Colchester.

Read - Lidl plans to open in Homebase Colchester.

Plans have been submitted to divide the Homebase store, at Cambridge Retail Park on Newmarket Road, to accommodate a Lidl with a bakery and on-site warehouse. The Homebase store will remain open and will continue to operate from the remaining space.

Lidl is applying for change of use for the premises to allow for food retail, and also needs to create a separate entrance for its new shop.

The planning application states: "The subdivision of the existing retail unit into two units follows a strategic review by Homebase of its operational and trading requirements throughout the UK. The DIY retailer considers that the existing store became too large relative to the demands of the UK market and changing digital shopping patterns. Reducing the size of the stores will allow for the strengthening of the business, ready for investment and growth."

The new foodstore will include a sales area, warehouse delivery area, cold rooms, a bakery, manager's office and staff facilities. An opening date for the 1,245 sq m store has yet to be confirmed.

Source: Insight DIY Team

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