(Image: LIDL)
A new Lidl store in Stanley has moved a step closer to opening.
The supermarket giant has confirmed that fit-out works are now officially underway on its new store in Chester Road.
The new supermarket is being built on the site of the former Go North East bus depot.
The development forms part of Lidl's wider multi-million-pound investment across the North East, which also includes new stores planned for Newcastle and Middlesbrough.
The Stanley store will transform the former 1920s bus depot, which has stood vacant since closing in 2019, into a modern supermarket aimed at expanding shopping choice for local residents.
Once complete, the store will feature a 1,334 square metre sales area, Lidl's in-store bakery and the retailer's popular "Middle of Lidl" aisle.
Lidl said the investment will also help create new jobs in the region.
The company stated that up to 120 positions would be available across its three planned North East developments.
Alongside Stanley, building work is progressing on a new store in Shieldfield, Newcastle, while early construction works have also started at a site in Linthorpe, Middlesbrough.
David Murphy, Lidl GB's regional head of property, said: "For over three decades, we've been proud to serve communities across the North East, and demand for our high-quality, affordable products continues to grow.
"Each of these developments breathes new life into long-vacant brownfield sites, bringing jobs, sustainable building features, and unbeatable value closer to home.
"We look forward to keeping everyone updated as construction progresses."
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lAs well as investing in the new stores, Lidl is inviting nearby primary schools to take part in its "Lidl Foodies" programme, which provides free resources designed to encourage healthy eating and improve children's understanding of nutrition.
The retailer said all three new stores will be built to its latest specifications and will include car parking and bicycle storage facilities.