A new Lidl supermarket is to be built at Crescent Link retail park in Londonderry after Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins confirmed she intends to grant planning permission.

The application was first submitted in 2021 and initially approved by Derry City and Strabane District Council before being called in for review by the Department for Infrastructure. The process has taken several years to conclude.

The store is expected to create 35 permanent jobs once open and support around 70 posts during construction. Minister Kimmins said she had attached significant weight to the social and economic benefits, including employment in the Waterside area, wider shopping choice for low-income families, local investment, and support from elected representatives and community groups. Her decision is subject to a number of conditions and a Notice of Opinion will now be issued to the council and the applicant before final completion.

DUP Foyle MLA Julie Middleton described the decision as an important investment and a boost for the local economy, noting the long and complex planning process that preceded it. She added that increased competition and retail investment are welcome at a time of financial pressure on families.

Foyle SDLP assembly member Mark H. Durkan also welcomed the outcome but criticised the length of the planning process, which he called ridiculously long.

Lidl operates more than 40 stores across Northern Ireland and announced plans in December to invest £31 million in the north west over five years.