PEOPLE packed a Clitheroe pub to see plans for a new Lidl store which could be built in the town.

The new store, which would replace a derelict mill, could be built as early as next year if it is given the go-ahead by planners.

Residents filled the Rose and Crown pub, in Castle Street, for a public consultation on the proposal yesterday afternoon.

The new store would be located on the site of Shawbridge Mill, at the junction of Peel Street and Shawbridge Street.

People expressed mixed views about the budget supermarket chain moving into the pictur-esque Ribble Valley town.

Veronica Redhead, who has lived in Shawbridge Street since 1980, welcomed the plans.

She said: “It is good for Clitheroe. Even though we live in a wealthy area, a lot of the young people are not wealthy and the shops in the town do not cater for all money brackets. It’s a positive thing and will create competition and make other supermarkets think about their prices.”

Clitheroe town centre currently has three supermarkets, Tesco, in Duck Street; Sainsbury’s, in Moor Lane; and Booths, in Station Road.

Meanwhile, Patricia Thom-pson, of Pendle Road, said the design for the building was too modern and the town did not need another supermarket.

She said: “People can have too much choice and it will take business away from local shops.”

The new 1,000sqm store would create 15 to 20 full and part-time jobs.

Nigel Pratt, chairman of Clitheroe Chamber of Trade, said: “It will increase retail options in the area and there is a real demand.

"Not everyone is wealthy and people need the extra choice.

“I don’t think it will take business from local retailers as they are specialist shops.”

A spokesperson for Lidl said: “The store will complement existing small retailers as we do not have in-store bakers, butchers, florists, dry cleaners, or other concessionary outlets.”

An application is due to be submitted before the end of this year.