Supermarket giants Lidl are hoping to pitch up in Troon, Ayrshire Live can reveal.
The German international retailer wants to take on the former Safeway store in Academy Street and open a new supermarket.
And they’ve already submitted a planning application to South Ayrshire Council, which is pending consideration.
They are, however, remaining tight-lipped over their ambitious proposals.
But Ayrshire Live can reveal they are requesting permission for “external alterations” to the site and to erect a “trolley bay” for customers.
In addition, they are asking for permission to install a new electricity substation and introduce “associated amendments” to the current car park layout.
There are currently a rows of shops which face on to the Academy Street car park, including one charity shop and Savers.
But it is unclear at this stage what the future will hold for them, if the plans are approved.
It would seem, according to the plans, that the Boots Pharmacy store will remain, while Costa Coffee remains unaffected.
One snag would appear to be with parking availability and access to nearby residents’ garages, or gardens.
Currently, the Academy Street car park can accommodate 207 vehicles, yet Lidl are only proposing 144 within their application.
And the issue over car parking has already irked some residents nearby, according to public responses.
Colin Bone, from Troon, submitted a response to the proposals and said: “I have concerns about the new car park layout and how it may cause issue with the access to the rear of my property.
“I would like to know what the intention is with the terms of the car park and the impact it will have on the parking in and around the properties.”
And Nathan Calderwood, who also lives in Academy Street, had this to say: “Can clarity be provided regarding ownership and access to the car park?
“Myself and neighbours require access to rear gardens and garages via the car park as traditional access is currently blocked by public amenities on Church Street lane.
“This has been raised previously and residents have been assured unrestricted access.
“As developments a few years ago did not remove the amenities on Church Street lane, as was expected, I am seeking assurances that our access would remain with any further development.”
The Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) also submitted a response, saying they had “no objection” to it on the basis of flood risk grounds, although they did recommend that the substation is “elevated” so as to reduce any risk posed by coastal flooding.
There’s been long time rumours about the possibility of another supermarket giant moving into the former Safeway store to challenge the domination Morrisons has enjoyed in the Ayrshire town.
Now Lidl has shown their hand for the first time.
Lidl was contacted for comment, but they declined.
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