Fr Harry Bohan, a Catholic priest, has conveyed his worry over the potential impact of a new Lidl’s supermarket on local retailers in the town of Sixmilebridge, Co Clare. Lidl’s proposed store on Main Street has met with opposition from the local populace. Fr Bohan, in his submission to Clare Co Council, stated his concerns over the rapidly changing town dynamics and the threat faced by local businesses and community values.
Emphasising the importance of supporting local shops and businesses, Fr Bohan questioned whether the residents of The Bridge were well-serviced by discount stores in neighbouring areas.
Local retailer, Flora Crowe, applauded Fr Bohan’s involvement in the contentious issue. Ms Crowe, who runs two local stores and employs 50 people, acclaimed the priest’s visionary spirit and community support. She expressed concern that while Lidl might not immediately shut down local businesses, it could gradually cause economic harm.
In her formal opposition to the planned store, Ms Crowe informed the council of her belief that the proposed Lidl supermarket could pose a severe threat to the local economy and societal structure of Sixmilebridge.
On the contrary, a planning report submitted by Lidl’s consultants, Tony Bamford Planning, affirmed the development of a “relatively small supermarket”. Mr Bamford argued that the proposed Lidl store will not exert any adverse effects on the town’s vitality and viability. He further contended that the chosen site is the optimal location for the proposed supermarket, considering its proximity to the town centre, suitability, availability, and viability, and that it meets all the criteria and prerequisites for retail development.