PLANS to build a multi-million pound supermarket on derelict land in a market town have been the green light by councillors.

Lidl has been given permission for an 1,358 square metre store, in Thirsk, which will create 25 jobs.

The German company, which specialises in cut-price groceries, says it hopes the £4million store will be open by May next year.

At a recent meeting, members of Hambleton District Council's development management committee gave unanimous approval to the revised scheme.

The company had amended its plans after concerns from Thirsk Town Council that the proposed building looked "too industrial".

There had also been complaints that the store, which will be built on derelict land between Newsham Road and Station Road, would increase traffic in the town.

Town councillors initially opposed the plans, saying the proposed store could look "less like a shed on an industrial estate".

The revised scheme, which Lidl said was more "suitable and sympathetic to Thirsk" eventually won support from the town council, with local residents also expressing their support.

No objections were put before planners at the meeting, at Hambleton civic centre, on Thursday (Sep18).

Councillor Freda Roberts, a member of Thirsk town council, spoke in favour of the plans.

She said: "I hope that the committee will grant this application planning permission.

"The people of Thirsk are very anxious that Lidl comes to the town.

"Thirsk is expanding. We have had about 180 new homes built in Station Road, and another 80 or so for Northallerton Road.

"This Lidl store will be in a very good position to serve Thirsk, Sowerby and Carlton Miniott.

"Lidl, with its competitive prices, will be very much welcomed by local residents."

Coun Roberts said Lidl would give shoppers in Thirsk more choice.

She said: "In December last year, the two Co-op stores amalgamate.

"It was then announced, a few months ago, that Somerfield and the Co-op would merge."

David Murphy, the company's development executive for the North-East, said: "Lidl is committed to this site, and to long-term investment in Thirsk.

"The company hopes to start trading at this site by May next year."

Hambleton's planning officers recommended that ten conditions be attached to the planning consent.

These were accepted by councillors.

Work on the site cannot begin until details of the foul sewage and surface water facilities have been approved by the council.