Lidl has announced that its long-awaited store in Clapton will open next spring, bringing a multi-million-pound investment to the area. The supermarket giant is transforming the former JET service station on Lower Clapton Road, a project that has faced years of speculation and delays.
Development Timeline and Design
Demolition was initially scheduled to begin in late 2025, and construction on the 1,000-square-metre site is now underway. The two-storey building will be pedestrian-focused, featuring an innovative design with the main warehouse and staff facilities located on the upper floor. Hackney Council granted planning permission in April 2025, following an initial application in July 2022.
Job Creation and Pay
Once operational, the store will create up to 40 new jobs. Employees will be paid a minimum of £14.80 per hour, rising to £15.30 per hour based on length of service. This pay rate is above the UK living wage and reflects Lidl's commitment to fair compensation.
Community Impact
Lidl's regional head of property, Joe Loydon, expressed enthusiasm: 'We’ve seen incredible demand for our products across Hackney, and we are thrilled to have started our works on Lower Clapton Road. We know the community has been following this project closely, and our bespoke high street store ensures we can maximize this space to bring a vibrant new supermarket to the neighbourhood.'
During the consultation process, 294 neighbours were engaged. Some expressed concerns about potential impacts on local businesses and existing architecture, while others welcomed the addition of a new supermarket. The construction update follows recent Lidl openings in Stamford Hill, Well Street (2023), and Hoxton Street (2024), underscoring the chain's expansion in East London.
