AN application for retail space for Lidls that could see 45 jobs coming to Harlow has been approved by the Harlow Council planning committee.

The application will now see a food outlet at 1A Queensgate on Edinburgh Way, Harlow (next to Smyth’s Toys).

An initial planning application was granted in 2018. This was for a change of use.

The benefits of the scheme were detailed below.

Concerns were raised by Tesco’s and Aldi who asserted that the details were “not robust enough”.

Speaking against the application was Rob Scadding on behalf of Aldi’s (18th minute) who called for the application to be refused or delayed for a number of reasons.

Speaking for was Joe Cort from Lidls who detailed that the popularity of their store in Staple Tye illustrated that there was a demand for an expansion in their product.

He also stressed the value of more jobs for the town and detailed the wage benefits at Lidls.

Another representative for Lidls, Craig Blatchford went onto make a number of detailed points supporting the application.

Harlow councillors asked a number of questions including access by public transport, car parking and questions regarding other stores.

Cllr Mike Danvers supported the application.

He said: “The roundabout at Edinburgh Way is terrible but that is not the fault of the applicants.

“This application is for the benefit of Harlow people. It will create more jobs.”

Cllr Mike Garnett said: “It is amazing how the big stores get so parochial”

The only councillor to object was Mark Hall councillor Bob Davis.

He said: “I’m concerned about the roundabout. When M11 Junction 7a starts, you will not be able to move.

“I think with the transport problems you really need to refer this application.”

Finally, cllr Mike Hardware detailed what he felt was relevant and irrelevant (44 mins).

“I support this application because I cannot see any reason not to”.

All councillors expect cllr Davis voted for application.

The full item can be seen on the YouTube film below from the fifth minute onwards.