A new Lidl could be coming to Northampton but some potential neighbours are already angry about it

Lidl wants to build a new supermarket in Northampton but a petition has already been launched opposing the 'unwanted' proposal.

The discount retailer has submitted a planning application to demolish a two-storey office block and associated warehouses on Kettering Road North.

But some residents have a long list of reasons why Northampton Borough Council should reject the scheme including the fact there is a Lidl just two miles away already.

A Lidl GB spokesperson said: "At Lidl GB, we are delighted to confirm we have submitted a planning application for a new store on Kettering Road in Northampton.

"As well as enabling customers to access to our fresh, quality and great value produce, if granted, this would mark a multi-million-pound investment in the area and the creation of around 40 new full and part-time jobs for the local economy once opened.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank the local community for their support so far and we look forward to further sharing and discussing our plans with them."

Lidl plans to knock down Mayleigh House and the connected workshops operated by Autohome Assistance, which will be relocating nearby, to create the new branch.

The supermarket will be built to Lidl’s latest specification with a modern design incorporating high-quality materials and energy-efficient building management systems, according to the plans.

The car park will be at a gradient to allow easier access for disabled customers and for those with shopping trolleys while landscaping buffers will surround it.

The store would be open from 8am to 10pm from Monday to Saturday and from 10am to 4pm on Sundays.

However, concerns have already been raised by neighbours about the necessity of another Lidl in Northampton as well as the potential negative impacts on traffic, existing shops and noise.

A petition opposing the scheme was launched yesterday (Wednesday, November 18) and has been signed by 12 people so far.

The description says: "This is a residential area and is unwanted. It would cause traffic congestion in the area."

While a woman who lives over the road from the site who signed the petition wrote that traffic is 'extremely heavy' at the best of times.

"Also trading hours are too late in the evening, and this is a residential area - there will be car doors slamming, noise and light pollution plus heavy artic delivery lorries.

"It's ok for people to say how nice but they will not be living on top of the store."

The deadline for comments is December 4 - a decision is expected from the council next year.