The family who own the site where Lidl hope to develop a store in Ross-on-Wye have told the Ross Gazette that they are concerned that further delays to the planning process will lead to the company pulling out from the scheme.

Andrea Wolf told the Gazette that selling part of the land to Lidl is the only way to make the business park, which is currently two thirds vacant, viable again.

She has written to the paper asking local councillors to,’very carefully consider the proposals and the positive impact that it could have on the Town.’ and has also asked local residents ‘to continue to voice their support for local businesses.’

She said: “For over 50 years my family have actively supported the local community and economic diversity of the town by providing jobs and employment opportunities in Ross-on-Wye.”

“The process of securing planning permission to redevelop the site, build a new Lidl store and regenerate the business park, by providing modern business units, has been significantly delayed and fragmented.

“With time ticking away, and in fear that the proposals will be thrown out without a proper public hearing, we are growing increasingly worried that it will not proceed, putting local jobs in jeopardy.”

Herefordshire Council planners are expected to consider the scheme by June 30th.

Read the letter in full in next week’s Ross Gazette.