Lidl has called for public support for its proposed new supermarket at Crescent Link after rival retailer Tesco requested that planning approval for the store be quashed.

The German discount retailer said the proposed store will create 30 permanent local jobs and result in significant costs savings on the weekly shop for families and households in the region.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins gave a Notice of Opinion to approve the major application for the proposed £8m store on undeveloped land between the Crescent Link Road and Summer Meadows in June.

However, Lidl have now said Tesco, which operates its own superstore at Lisnagelvin, have asked Ms. Kimmins to revisit the decision.

Proposals for a new Lidl supermarket in the Crescent Link in Derry’s Waterside were approved by Liz Kimmins in June.

placeholder image — Proposals for a new Lidl supermarket in the Crescent Link in Derry’s Waterside were approved by Liz Kimmins in June.

Gordon Cruikshanks, Regional Managing Director, Lidl NI said: "We are extremely concerned to learn of Tesco's plans to attempt to hinder Lidl's expansions in Derry~Londonderry through a judicial review process, just as we set to commence construction of the long-awaited new store at Crescent Link.

"Our plans for Crescent Link received an incredible amount of support from the local community, and we know that many people will share our disappointment with these latest developments.”

Tesco has pointed out that it does not object to the majority of planning applications submitted by its competitors and that any objections are based solely on material planning considerations.

But Mr. Cruikshanks said: "In spite of this uncalled-for challenge by Tesco, Lidl's long-term commitment to the Derry City and Strabane District remains stronger than ever. We will continue to engage proactively with the stakeholders to address any challenges which needlessly extend the planning process and block private commercial and retail development."