‘])){
Lidl Wins Appeal to Open Bar in Dundonald
Table of Contents
- 1. Lidl Wins Appeal to Open Bar in Dundonald
- 2. Will Lidl’s bar be a welcome addition to Dundonald, or will it have an adverse impact on existing businesses?
- 3. Lidl Dundonald Bar Victory: An Interview Wiht Local Business Owner
- 4. How do you feel about Lidl’s successful appeal to open a bar in their Dundonald store?
- 5. Philip russell Ltd, owner of several off-licences in Northern ireland, argued that Lidl’s plans skirted regulations by essentially trying to obtain a new off-license through a disguised bar operation. What’s your take on that?
- 6. Do you think Lidl’s plans pose any legitimate concerns for the existing pub scene in Dundonald?
- 7. How do you see your local pub adapting to this new development?
- 8. what message would you send to the Dundonald community regarding this development?
A long-running legal battle over Lidl’s plans to open a bar inside its Dundonald store in County Down has come to an end with the supermarket giant successfully appealing against previous objections. Philip Russell Ltd, the owner of several off-licences in Northern Ireland, had launched the appeal, arguing that Lidl hadn’t demonstrated a lack of existing licensed premises in the area.
Despite their prior submission for an off-license at the same location being rejected years ago, Lidl pressed forward with plans for the tap room. Their proposal, initially granted planning permission back in 2020, includes a £410,000 (€490,000) investment into both the bar and an off-sales section. Crucially, the plan hinges on an agreement with a neighboring bar to surrender their licence, as no new alcohol-selling licenses can be issued unless an existing one is relinquished.
Philip Russell Ltd argued that Lidl’s plans skirted the regulations by essentially attempting to obtain a new off-licence through a disguised bar operation. They pointed out the supposed abundance of licensed premises in the vicinity, a claim disputed by Lidl.
Mr Justice Colton, presiding over the case, ultimately ruled in favor of Lidl. He acknowledged that the potential bar might not satisfy the full demand for drinking establishments in the area, stating, “It may well be that it will not meet the full demand for licensed premises within the vicinity given its size and lack of food provision,” Though, he highlighted, “That, however, does not mean that [Lidl] fails to establish inadequacy.” Colton concluded that Lidl had proven a genuine need for their proposed establishment and satisfied legal requirements.
The judge emphasized Lidl’s commitment, stating, “I accept that it has concluded that the public house will be profitable, knowing that if it closed through lack of profitability a consequence would be that the off-licence permission would lapse following any such decision. I am satisfied that it meets the statutory requirements.”
Will Lidl’s bar be a welcome addition to Dundonald, or will it have an adverse impact on existing businesses?
Lidl Dundonald Bar Victory: An Interview Wiht Local Business Owner
Following Lidl’s recent appeal win permitting them to open a bar in their Dundonald store, we spoke with Justin O’Malley, owner of O’Malley’s Pub, a popular local establishment, to get his take on the situation.
How do you feel about Lidl’s successful appeal to open a bar in their Dundonald store?
“It’s certainly a development that’s raising quite a few eyebrows around the Dundonald area.Look, we all understand the appeal of convenience, and I’m sure the Lidl Bar will attract its fair share of customers. But I can’t help but feel a bit concerned about the potential impact on established businesses like mine. Dundonald already has a vibrant pub scene, and I wonder if this addition will shift the balance.”
Philip russell Ltd, owner of several off-licences in Northern ireland, argued that Lidl’s plans skirted regulations by essentially trying to obtain a new off-license through a disguised bar operation. What’s your take on that?
“Well, I think that’s a valid point indeed. It does seem a bit of a loophole they’ve found. We pubs have to jump through hoops to get licenses, and there are good reasons for it. we employ staff,contribute to the community,and provide a unique social space. You can’t equate that to a simple bar setup within a supermarket. It’s not just about selling alcohol; it’s about the atmosphere,service,and experience.”
Do you think Lidl’s plans pose any legitimate concerns for the existing pub scene in Dundonald?
“it’s certainly a possibility. lidl’s proposal is heavily reliant on an agreement with a neighboring bar to surrender their license. That suggests they recognise that simply opening another licensed premises in a saturated market is questionable. The question then becomes, who will ultimately surrender their license, and will it be necessary for other businesses to close down to make room for Lidl’s venture? Those are concerns we need to seriously consider.”
How do you see your local pub adapting to this new development?
“We’ll continue to do what we’ve always done – provide our customers with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, great drinks, and pleasant service. We’re not just a place to drink; we’re a community hub. we host events, support local charities, and build relationships with our patrons. I believe that’s something no supermarket bar can truly replicate.”
what message would you send to the Dundonald community regarding this development?
“I encourage everyone to support their local businesses, especially in the face of new competition. We may need to be more creative and innovative to keep thriving,but we’re determined to remain a vibrant part of this community. What do you think,archyde readers? Will Lidl’s bar be a welcome addition to Dundonald,or will it have an adverse impact on existing businesses?”
