Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has confirmed her intention to grant planning permission for a new Lidl supermarket near Crescent Link retail park in Londonderry, Northern Ireland, ending a five-year wait. The decision comes after the original 2021 proposal was approved by Derry City and Strabane District Council but subsequently called in by the Department for Infrastructure (DfI).
Job Creation and Economic Benefits
The new store is expected to create 35 permanent jobs once operational and 70 roles during its construction phase. Minister Kimmins stated she had reached a "carefully balanced decision" and attached "significant material weight to the social and economic benefits of job creation in the Waterside area, greater shopping choices for low-income families, investment in the local community and strong support from elected representatives and community groups."
Political Reaction and Delays
Foyle SDLP assembly member Mark H. Durkan welcomed the decision but described the planning process as "ridiculously long." The delays had frustrated local councillors, though the plans received cross-party support within the council, according to the BBC. Before final approval, a Notice of Opinion will be issued to the council and the applicant.
Lidl's Expansion in Northern Ireland and UK
Lidl operates more than 40 stores across Northern Ireland. In December 2025, the retailer announced plans to invest £31 million in the north west of the region over five years. The German-owned company has over 1,000 UK stores and announced in April 2026 plans to open more than 50 additional stores in the following year. Last week, Lidl opened its first pub, The Middle Ale bar and off-licence, adjacent to its existing store in Dundonald, near Belfast.
