A second charity organisation has lodged an objection to Lidl’s proposed plans to build a new supermarket in Troon’s Academy Street.
Oxfam’s regional estate surveyor Peter Cole claimed the plans by the German supermarket giant would effectively end his charity’s 17- year association with the Ayrshire town.
Oxfam has a unit in Academy Street which will be impacted by the Lidl proposals should planning permission be given.
Mr Cole warned that if the supermarket plan goes ahead, Oxfam will be “forced out” of town.
He also told how the loss of the shop would hinder Oxfam’s ability to provide aid and disaster relief to some of the poorest communities in the world.
In a letter of objection, Mr Cole said: “As Oxfam’s regional estate surveyor, I object to this proposal.
“Oxfam have occupied the shop at Academy Street for over 17 years during which time we have received fantastic support from local donors, customers and volunteers.
“The Oxfam shop forms an intrinsic part of the retail provision in Troon and adds to the eclectic mix which benefits residents and attracts visitors.
“An approval of the application would see Oxfam forced out of the shop with no alternative premises of a comparable size and location currently available in Troon.
“The loss of income would directly affect Oxfam’s programme work and our ability to provide aid and disaster relief to some of the poorest communities in the world.”
He is the second charity boss to oppose the plans.
In an exclusive last month, Ayrshire Live told how Carla MacEwan, the CEO at Ayrshire Hospice, penned a letter of objection.
Her organisation has a charity shop within the Academy Street precinct which is also under threat.
Ms MacEwan warned that the charity would face crippling losses of £50,000 per annum if they were to leave the site.
She also revealed how the hospice plan to extend their current lease on the shop beyond 2024.
Lidl, though, have submitted an updated planning application, where they seek permission to build two retail units with associated access, parking and landscaping.
But the plans still don’t take into consideration either the hospice shop or Oxfam; and Savers will also be impacted.
One significant change to the updated planning application proposes that the Boots Pharmacy in Academy Street moves out of its current base and a new one is built next to Costa Coffee.
However, that could result in the loss of some parking provision, which is already a bone of contention. Costa Coffee remains unaffected.
Other concerns from those opposed to the plan include the loss of parking availability, increased traffic and question marks over access to private residential gardens.
One resident opposed to the plan is Judith Leggate, of Troon, who said: “There is already too much traffic in the town centre and this would only attract more, making the town less attractive to visitors. I am not convinced the town needs another supermarket.”
And Ali Davidson, also of Troon, said: “Parking is already difficult in this part of Troon. This would significantly reduce available parking forcing visitors to park on nearby streets.
“It is already difficult for people living on this stretch of Academy Street to park at the best of times. If Lidl are able to restrict parking for their customers only, I believe this would cause chaos.”
However, support for Lidl’s plans is growing.
Mrs Linda Rae said: “I believe this development is necessary and long overdue because there is only one superstore in Troon, therefore, I fully support a new superstore.”
Gerry McGonigle added: “This is a much-needed venture within the town. The jobs it brings to the town will be significant and are very welcome.
“There has historically been supermarkets at this location therefore should have no major impact. Parking should not be an issue as all on road parking within Troon is already free.”
Lidl are staying tight-lipped over the proposals which are “pending consideration” according to South Ayrshire Council’s online planning portal.
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