Lidl will be extending its supermarket operation by adding a new outlet in the outskirts of Zebbug after the Planning Board granted development permission for the works to commence.
Last year, the Board had suspended a decision on this application and instructed the applicant to address a number of issues including the reduction of ODZ land take up and to make the project more sensitive to its surroundings.
The Board noted that all the issues that were raised were addressed by the applicant most notable the removal of the parking spaces which were proposed to be located parallel to the road from the roundabout leading to Attard. This area will now be landscaped with trees and shrubs. Grass block pavers covering an approximate area of 1,400m2 which will add to the overall green effect of the project has also been included in the revised plans.
Close to the entrance of the supermarket the applicant has added bicycle racks and car charging stations for visiting customers to opt for alternative means of transport. Lidl Malta has also committed to the full restoration of the Grade 1 windmill, known as il-Mitħna ta’ Srina including the reconstruction of its blades.
The Board said that it was also satisfied that the Traffic Impact Assessment got reviewed with all the necessary scientific studies including new traffic counts receiving the clearance of Transport Malta (TM).
The project will include the demolition of an existing woodworking factory/showroom which is sited within a designated Area of Containment. Works will include the excavation for two basement levels to accommodate an underground car park and other mixed-use while a surface carpark and supermarket will be constructed at ground floor level.