A pre-application consultation over a proposed Lidl store in between New Hedges and Tenby has now opened, although one local county councillor has questioned the suitability of the location being proposed.

Lidl unveiled towards the end of last year, its plans to progress forward with proposals for a new foodstore on land off the A478, on Narberth Road at New Hedges, near the entrance to Park House Court care home.

With the proposals at an early stage, Lidl stated that they would likely include:

• A new store, with a 1,334 sq m net sales area, built to the very latest specification, including modern in-store facilities like Lidl’s popular bakery, and customer toilets with baby changing facilities

• 103 parking spaces including 6 accessible and 9 parent and child bays and covered cycle parking

Lidl site Tenby and New Hedges
The site that has been earmarked for a new Lidl store in New Hedges just before you enter Tenby (Observer pic)

• Up to 40 jobs for local people including full and part-time roles

• Enhanced environmental features such as solar panels on the roof and rapid electric vehicle chargers in the parking area

Now a pre-application consultation relating to the intention of ‘Lidl Great Britain Ltd’ to submit to the local planning authority (Pembrokeshire County Council) a full planning application for the development of foodstore (Class A1) with surface level car parking, landscaping, and all associated development, has been submitted.

County Councillor for the ward of St Mary Out Liberty (New Hedges) Cllr Rhys Jordan shared an update this month on the situation: “Many residents will now be aware of Lidl’s intention to build a new supermarket on land at Park House Court.

“What this is – and what it isn’t, this is not a planning application. It’s the next stage of public consultation, giving residents a chance to share their views with the agent acting for Lidl before they submit a formal application to the Council.

“It’s a standard part of the planning process, and an important chance for our community to make its voice heard early.

“My position I want to be clear - I support the idea of a new supermarket for the area — it’s something many residents have long called for and can bring many benefits including lower prices and job opportunities. But I do not support the location being proposed.

“This site is not suitable, in my view. It goes against the current Local Development Plan, and I believe there are better, more appropriate locations that would serve the community without the same level of impact.

Lidl plans for Tenby
Land off the A478, on Narberth Road at New Hedges, near the entrance to Park House Court has been earmarked for the store. (Lidl)

“I will be making my own representation shortly and will update residents on the response I receive. I encourage anyone with a view to take part in this consultation — this is your opportunity to help shape what happens next,” he added.

How to Have Your Say You can view the proposals and give your feedback directly to Lidl’s agents by July 23, 2025:

• Email: [email protected]

• Or in person at Tenby Library during opening hours.

Further details of the scheme are available on the website: Lidl Tenby - Public Consultation (tenby.newsite.lidl.co.uk)