THE new Lidl store to be built at Llandudno Junction will be at least six months late opening.

In October 2017 Stuart Jardine, Lidl UK’s regional head of property, said: “Should planning permission be granted, we hope to have the store open by Christmas 2018.”

He added: “This substantial investment will see the creation of a new Lidl supermarket and the regeneration of the Daily Post and former Arriva site.”

This week a spokesman for Lidl said: “We’re hoping to start construction later this year with a view to opening next summer. The store will create up to 40 new jobs. Recruitment will start in the new year.”

He added: “The opening date was initially pushed back earlier this year as demolition works on site took longer than expected. The remediation works currently being undertaken are due to be completed shortly and as soon as they are approved, we’ll be looking to start construction on site.”

Conwy Borough cllr Sue Shotter said: “If you are going to do a job it is best you do it properly and sometimes this can cause delay.

“It is disappointing that people can’t start to be recruited and trained for the new jobs earlier, but nevertheless we are happy to be getting the jobs.”

She added: “At the time the planning application was submitted there were problems about the proposed access to the car park from the road.

"Additionally there were concerns voiced by members of the public about the level of consultation. All of this lead to a drawn out planning process and this must have had a knock on effect on the development.

“But all these issues are now in the past, and I think we are all looking forward to shopping in the new store.

“Another positive factor is that the development will help improve what was a run down area.”

Fellow ward cllr Mike Priestley said: "The delay is regrettable, however it has been a difficult site to clear. I am looking forward to the creation of 40 new jobs in the local area which are most welcome.

"A number of residents have told me they are looking forward to shopping in Lidl."

The new discount supermarket is being constructed on the former site of the Daily Post and Arriva offices, and demolition of the buildings and site clearance is well underway.