A bid to build a new Lidl store in Irvine has been delayed again after an appeal hearing today so councillors can see the site.

The plan was heard by councillors at an appeal hearing today [Monday, October 26] after the decision was again delayed earlier in the month.

However following a vote councillors agreed to pay a visit to the site at Lidl's request - while othercommittee members felt they had enough information already. 

Planning chiefs reiterated NAC's reasons for refusal including Lidl not taking a "town centre first approach" as set out in the council's Local Development Plan [LDP].

They added Lidl failed to demonstrate there wasn't an available site more suitable - claiming the former Ayrshire Metals site would be acceptable.

However Lidl maintain there is no suitable sites to operate adding 98 per cent supported the proposal after a consultation even and local action group 

Councillors agreed to visit the site before deciding following a vote - with members split on deciding today or visiting the site first and the chair deciding with representatives to be heard at a future hearing.