CONSTRUCTION of a new Lidl store in Moreton is expected to start early next year.

This would be more than two years after plans were first revealed.

The new Lidl is part of a wider regeneration project on Pasture Road in the town and one of the key developments Wirral Council has been looking to get off the ground as part of its draft Local Plan.

This plan outlines planned developments on Wirral over the next two decades.

As well as bringing in a new store, the plans would provide more homes and new investment into the town centre.

A planning application for the scheme outlined proposals for 45 new homes, 80 affordable extra care apartments for the elderly, an outdoor area, as well as improvements to Moreton Library to make room for outdoor activities and a summer house.

The Lidl was originally due to open in 2024 but it’s understood work to build the new store is expected to start early next year.

Urban Regen Ltd also applied for planning permission earlier this year to demolish a former family centre on the centre which will become the new 80 extra care apartments.

Lidl is continuing to move the store plans forward applying for a licence to sell alcohol from 7am to 11pm at night Monday to Sunday.

Overall planning permission for the scheme was granted in 2023 which said the new store could only be open from 7am until 10pm Monday to Saturday and from 10am to 7pm on Sundays.

When the plans were approved in 2023, councillors praised the scheme for its comprehensive plan, proactive engagement with the local community, and social benefits to the area. Only two people objected to the scheme after 14,000 residents were asked for their views on the plans.