After more than a decade of stagnation, a derelict site on the fringes of Croydon could finally be regenerated, as discount supermarket giant Lidl submits a renewed planning application for a combined store and housing development.
Details of the Proposed Hamsey Green Development
The German retailer aims to construct a modern supermarket on Tithepit Shaw Lane in Hamsey Green, a location that sits directly on the border between Croydon and the Tandridge district in Surrey. The store will feature a sales area of approximately 1,235 square metres, complete with an in-store bakery, customer toilets, and baby-changing facilities.
Parking provision includes 55 spaces for customers, incorporating accessible bays, parent-and-child spaces, rapid electric vehicle charging points, and covered cycle storage. A significant part of the proposal is the residential element above the store, which will provide six three-bedroom townhouses and seven two- and three-bedroom apartments. Some of these homes are designated as affordable housing, and each will benefit from private gardens or terraces, secure storage, and dedicated parking.
Addressing a Long-Standing Local Eyesore
The site, which was once home to the Good Companions pub, was purchased by Lidl 12 years ago for a sum believed to be around £2 million. Since the pub's demolition, the land has remained largely empty, becoming overgrown and blighted by issues such as fly-tipping and graffiti, which local residents have described as an "eyesore".
During a recent consultation, Lidl states that over 1,300 residents expressed support for the new plans, citing the benefits of increased shopping convenience, new homes, and local employment. The company estimates the development could create up to 40 new full and part-time jobs for the area, with pay aligned to its London-wide rates.
Traffic Concerns and Proposed Mitigations
Some residents, however, have voiced concerns, particularly regarding potential increases in traffic and road safety for children at nearby schools. In response, Lidl has put forward a package of measures designed to alleviate these worries.
The proposed traffic and environmental initiatives include:
- Traffic-calming schemes
- A reduction of the speed limit on nearby roads
- Improved pedestrian crossings close to the site and local schools
- Enhanced landscaping to help the development blend with its surroundings
Max Clapton, Regional Head of Property at Lidl GB, said: "We want to deliver a scheme that’s best for Hamsey Green and have updated our proposals in line with the feedback we received. We hope to become a pillar of the community, providing investment, jobs and homes."
As the site straddles two council boundaries, the application must be approved by both Croydon Council (reference: 25/03653/FUL) and Tandridge District Council (reference: TA/2025/1271). Residents are encouraged to view the full plans on the respective council planning portals.
