WORK to build a state-of-the-art supermarket in Radcliffe town centre could begin within weeks after planning permission was granted by Bury Council.

The new Lidl store, in Dale Street, will create 40 new jobs and is due to open early next year.

The ‘Lidl of the Future’ will boast an in-store bakery, longer-style tills with dual packing facilities, customer toilets and parking for both cars and bicycles.

Lidl UK’s regional head of property, Nick Harvey, said: “We could not be more delighted to have received planning permission, and look forward to getting started on construction.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the local community for their continued support, and very much look forward to opening our doors and offering our fresh, quality, great value products in the not too distant future.”

Rumours have circulated about a new supermarket coming to Radcliffe since 2011, when Lidl was named among the budget chains that had expressed an interest in being part of the town’s transformation.

It is hoped that the new development – which will be opposite the town’s only current superstore, Asda – will also increase footfall through Radcliffe Market Hall.

One stallholder at the market, who runs Polly’s, said: “When we heard that a new Lidl was potentially coming to the town centre it was good news.We are all hoping that it will bring more people to the town centre, meaning more people will come to use the market.”

The supermarket is planning to open from 7am to 10pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 5pm on Sundays.

A flood risk assessment of the scheme has resulted in several recommendations being made to reduce danger, including setting the floor level at an appropriate height and using flood-resistant materials in the store’s construction.

The store will also be one of the first in the UK to be built according to Lidl’s new modern concept design.

Bury Council leader Cllr Rishi Shori said: “It is fantastic news Lidl will be opening a flag ship stores in Radcliffe.”