DISCOUNT supermarket giant Lidl has submitted new plans for a store in Northfield after a previous application was turned down earlier this year.
Despite original proposals receiving considerable support from the community, an earlier application in April 2025 was declined by Birmingham City Council’s planning committee.
Citing concerns around design and landscaping, councillor’s went against approval recommendations from city planning officers.
Updated plans submitted last week aim to alleviate concerns by making various amendments. Alterations and additions include a rotation of the store – to be located on the A38 Bristol Road, replacing part of Northfield Shopping Centre – by 90 degrees to improve its relationship with the surrounding area.
The development would also now feature a new public realm between the store and the retained part of Northfield Shopping Centre to ensure a safe pedestrian route through Victoria Common.
Various landscaping efforts also feature among the plans including ornamental shrub and tree planting.
It’s entrance would also be re-positioned to be facing the Bristol Road, with changes to the facade proposed to create a ‘clear and engaging interface with the public realm’.
Retained elements of the application include over 100 car parking spaces including electric vehicle charging points and bicycle provision. Alterations to facilitate access to the site are also retained.
When previous plans were submitted, the store was expected to generate 40 jobs which was considered low by a councillor on the voting committee at the time.
It was also highlighted that there were already several supermarkets within a 10-minute walk of the site. The previous application was refused after three votes for and five votes against.
To view the application in full, visit Birmingham City Council’s planning portal online. Search for planning application 2025/04646/PA. Comments can be submitted until November 19, 2025.
