Since plans for a new Lidl store in St Albans were revealed, our readers have shared their views on what may become the supermarket giant's first store in the city.
On Wednesday, Lidl GB confirmed a proposal to bring a food shop to Brick Knoll Park on Ashley Road.
The proposal is currently in its early stages, with the community asked to provide feedback ahead of an official submission to St Albans City and District Council.
Lidl hope to bring the vacant brownfield site back to use, replacing the ageing office and warehouse space.
The reaction from our readers was overwhelming positive on Facebook, with many looking forward to the possible shop.
One user said: "At last - a supermarket that means I don't have to cross the city."
While another commented: "Yes a brilliant idea bring it on."
Others did raise concerns about the increase in traffic around the Ashley Road area.
"As a nearby resident, I hope the extra amount of traffic it'll generate on Ashley Road and surrounding roads will be considered," a user exclaimed.
A different user echoed this saying: "I wish they'd put supermarkets where people without cars can get to them."
Lidl believes it would serve the area’s growing population, create up to 40 new jobs, and provide easy access to the discounter’s "affordable and high-quality products" by car, bicycle, bus and on foot.
Car parking will be provided on site, with 121 customer parking spaces, including six disabled and nine ‘parent and child’ parking spaces, alongside two Electric Vehicle chargers and 12 bicycle parking spaces.
Meanwhile, pedestrians would access the site from Ashley Road.
A pair of pre-existing bus stops are also located directly next to the proposed store.
Some who claimed to live nearby offered their "wholehearted support" for a potential store - one commenter believed it would be "perfectly placed".
"My Lidl shopping will go from a 12 mile round trip to a 600 metre round trip, I'm very happy with this news," a Facebook user said.
The building's appearance came under question as many supported a comment hoping the shop is not "ugly" and less like a "fabricated warehouse" similar to other Lidl locations.
It was praised for its cost however, as many are glad to see a "cheaper option" in St Albans.
"Since they launched all over Ireland, absolutely everyone loves them. You have access to a great but cheaper option while there is a cost of living crisis.
"They treat staff very well too. If you don’t like don’t go! But for those who do it’s a win all round," a commenter said.
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