Plans to open a new Lidl in Cheadle Heath could be back on – despite a rejection from the council earlier this year.

In January, councillors refused the proposal in a meeting where Lidl was accused of using 'disgusting' tactics to whip up local support for the store.

It was suggested in the meeting that Lidl had delayed a decision being made in order to get signatures on a petition in favour of a new supermarket.

Fears were also raised about the proposed location near the M60 slip road, and council officers had concerns about the impact of the store on the character of the area.

Lidl has appealed the council's rejection with the planning inspector, and said opening a new store at Cheadle Heath Works off Stockport Road would benefit the local community.

The designs submitted to Stockport council include an in-store bakery and 102 car parking spaces.

Nick Harvey, head of Lidl's Manchester property office, said: "We're pleased to be progressing our plans for a new Lidl in Cheadle Heath with the Planning Inspectorate.

"Over 450 local residents signed our petition last year, highlighting the strong community support for bringing a Lidl to this site.

"This proposed store will offer local residents increased shopping choice, access to our high-quality, affordable products, and will create around 40 new jobs in the area. We look forward to keeping the community updated as things move forward."

The planning inspector has not yet given a decision date for the appeal, but it is likely to take months before a result is reached.

Stockport council has lost two planning appeals in recent years, these were around separate plans to build new homes on Gatley Golf Club and Mirrlees Fields in Hazel Grove.

On both occasions the council rejected planning applications but had its decisions overturned.

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