Lidl, the discount supermarket chain, has renewed its plans to demolish a hotel that is currently being used to accommodate asylum seekers. The Three Counties hotel is located in Hereford, in the west of England.

Lidl presented an outline proposal for the site in 2022 and was met with more than 200 objection letters.

The latest application submitted by Lidl includes a proposed store with a smaller floor space. The company aims to provide 40 full-time-equivalent jobs through this development.

Withdrawn application remains under review

Lidl now claims that their earlier outline proposal for the hotel site has been withdrawn. However, the official website of Herefordshire Council indicates that the application remains active and undecided, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The council is yet to make a final decision on the matter.

Hotel's current use and contract

The Three Counties hotel is home to 120 asylum seekers under a 12-month contract signed earlier in 2023 by its current owners. The temporary accommodation facility is crucial for individuals seeking asylum in the area.

Smaller store and improved access

The plans presented in the latest application depict a store with a floor space of just under 2,000 square metres, a reduction from the previously proposed 2,700. The new proposal also includes 118 parking spaces.

In response to advice from council officers, the application also addresses concerns regarding access and proposes necessary improvements.

Lidl clarified that their intentions for the branch do not involve offering additional services, such as a previously suggested takeaway food option. The focus now appears to be solely on establishing a supermarket for the local community.

Comprehensive consideration of factors

The new application also takes into account transportation, flood risk, ecological impact, landscaping and noise issues. Lidl aims to ensure that these concerns are thoroughly addressed and appropriately managed in the proposed project.

As the fate of the Three Counties Hotel hangs in the balance, the decision lies with Herefordshire Council to carefully review the latest application and evaluate the potential impacts on the local community, asylum seekers and the surrounding environment.