Lidl and M&S lose out in Formby as Sefton sides with supermarket rivals
Summary
Sefton Council has refused a hybrid planning application for The Point in Formby, which proposed new Lidl and M&S Foodhall stores alongside industrial and ancillary development. Councillors concluded the scheme would harm the district centre and that the sustainable transport provision was insufficient, despite officer advice that the impact would not be severely adverse.
Why it matters
The decision is relevant to surveyors involved in retail, mixed-use and out-of-centre development because it highlights how planning committees weigh town-centre impact, transport provision and site constraints. It also shows the potential for appeals where committee decisions diverge from officer recommendations.
Key points
- Sefton Council rejected the hybrid application against officer recommendation.
- The scheme included two supermarkets, a drive-thru, a medical centre and 18.7 acres of industrial development.
- Councillors said the proposal would negatively affect Formby district centre.
- Sustainable transport infrastructure was judged to be lacking.
- The site lies by Downholland Brook, Bull Cop main river and within Formby Moss Local Wildlife Site.
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