It's more good news...

The German firm, which has a Scottish base in Deans, Livingston, will demolish the former Kwiksave premises in Links Road and build its own premises.

A planning application was lodged with Falkirk Council this week and a decision will have to be made by the council's regulatory committee before work commences on site.

With Lidl bosses having already had meetings with planners to iron out snags prior to seeking consent the planning application should proceed smoothly.

Once consent is obtained, the bulldozers will move in and rebuilding will commence. It is anticipated the store could be open before the end of the year.

A spokesman said: "Lidl are delighted to confirm they have secured the former super market site on Links Road for the proposed development of a foodstore. This is an opportune acquisition as it gives Lidl the chance to be part of the regeneration of Bo'ness.

Lidl are pleased to have the opportunity, subject to obtaining the necessary consents, to provide Bo'ness with a spacious, user-friendly shop where quality costs less. And as Lidl is not a 'one stop' shop, we look forward to trading alongside the established Bo'ness town centre retailers."

Mary Jane Armstrong, assistant town centre manager, welcomed the news.

WONDERFUL

She said: "This is wonderful news for Bo'ness. I'm really pleased because it will lift some of the gloom surrounding the town centre at the moment.

"I know trading conditions are tough with at least one pub and hairdresser's up for sale.

"I knew someone had been showing an interest in the site but I had no idea that it was another supermarket chain. I'm delighted with this announcement because it will also bring a few jobs to the town."

Councillor Beth Eaglesham, who’s Dean Ward includes the town centre, said: "This application by Lidl is very welcome and will give residents more choice. That has to be good news. There is very little against it in planning terms and consent will depend on the detail of the application."

A spokeswoman for Falkirk Council said Lidl had submitted an application for a 1,063 square metre store with associated car parking at Links Road, which is outwith the town centre conservation area and the Health and Safety Executive consultation zone.

"Neighbour notification will be the next step in the process," said the spokeswoman.