Lidl has lodged a planning application for a new, modern and improved supermarket - bringing 50 jobs to the Wee County, writes Jen Mitchell.

The store will be built on a site owned by Rubicon Land along Clackmannan Road, close to Alloa Athletic Football Club and KFC, and will replace the existing supermarket in Candleriggs.

A spokesman for Lidl said, “Lidl have a strong commitment to Alloa. The existing store commenced trading in 1994 and was one of the first Lidl stores in the UK.

“However the existing store is compromised - it is substandard in terms of size, configuration and parking provision and struggles to compete with the large new supermarkets that have opened up nearby.

“We are committed to providing our customers with the best range of goods at the best possible price and to do that we need a new, modern store. The site on Clackmannan Road is the best site from which to serve our customers.” As part of the deal Rubicon will take ownership of the existing Candleriggs building.

Colin Taylor of Rubicon said, “We have had early discussions with several major national retailers from the fashion and white goods sectors who are interested in acquiring space in Alloa and we are confident that we will be able to bring a major new name to the town.” In total the proposal would result in over 50 new jobs being created and represents a multi-million pound investment in the town.

The development is also good news for Alloa Athletic FC.

If planning is granted Rubicon has agreed to help fund a new car park on the currently unused site to the rear of the KFC restaurant.

This will improve the appearance and image of the football club by providing an attractive and well-managed area adjacent to one of the entrances, which is a positive benefit not only for the club and supporters but also for neighbours and local residents.

In addition, Rubicon - who has invested significantly in club sponsorship in the past - has pledged to fund youth football initiatives if the planning is given the green light.

Mike Mulraney, chairman of AAFC, said, “We believe that the proposed development would be very good for the club and the local community - providing many benefits to both - and we fully support the proposals.” For further info, check out www.rubiconland.co.uk.