Supermarket could move on to former cinema site

Lidl wants to build a new store on a site that was used for an Odeon cinema for three decades before it shut last year.

The German retailer wants to use the land in Skimped Hill Lane in Bracknell, which was also previously used for Hollywood Bowl and Pizza Hut, and said its plan could create about 40 jobs.

A planning application is expected to be submitted in the coming weeks. A decision is anticipated from Bracknell Forest Council later this year, with an opening possible in 2027 or 2028.

Paul Bidwell, the council's deputy leader, said the project was "hugely welcome news".

Bidwell added: "Bracknell is a great place to do business and, with some of the highest shopping footfall in the region, it's a no brainer that Lidl wants to get in on the action.

"I look forward to welcoming them to our thriving town."

Oliver Loach, Lidl GB's regional head of property, said it was "excited" about the plan.

"This proposed investment in a new Lidl store reflects our ongoing aspirations to open a store [on the cinema site]," he added.

The new store would be close to a Morrisons store in the Peel Centre.

It would also be a short walk from Waitrose and Marks & Spencer off Western Roundabout, with a potential new Aldi store also planned for the footprint of the former Homebase nearby.