A NEW supermarket could be coming to an East Lancashire town if plans are given the green light.

Rapleys LLP have submitted an application on behalf of Lidl to transform the land off Wyre Street in Padiham.

If approved it will see the demolition of the current building and creating a store of more than 1,000 sq metres.

In the statement to planners, it said: "There are currently no Lidl stores present in Padiham, with the nearest store located in Burnley, approximately 4.5 miles east of Padiham.

"Therefore, it is considered that through the redevelopment of the site, this scheme will improve the range and choice of the retail offer within this area by bringing a new discount foodstore retailer which will assist in improving Padiham’s retail offer."

It added that the scheme could bring employment to the area with typical stores providing 40 full-time jobs and 'together with a multi million pound investment into the area, (will be) delivering a significant boost to the local economy.

"The proposed building will provide a clean and contemporary design that will be complimentary to the visual character of the surrounding area;

"There will be a positive economic impact as a result of new employment and increased earnings in the local area."

Cllr Andrew Tatchell, who represents the Gawthorpe ward, says the foodstore could be a positive thing for the area.

He said: "It has been common knowledge that Lidl were looking to go on there as they did an unofficial consultation asking for people's views.

"It seems to have been popular with people and I am sure Lancashire County Council will sort any questions about highways and traffic building up at the junction of Wyre Street and Burnley Road.

"There was a feeling when Tesco were moving nearby that the town centre would die as people would just go to Tesco to get products but the town centre is thriving now so it would not be the same.

"There was some talk that Aldi might be interested in going there but they have gone elsewhere but I think having a similar supermarket would be good.

"Any development locally to provide jobs in this current climate has to be welcomed."