A CUT-PRICE supermarket giant has unveiled plans for a huge warehouse and offices at the gateway to the New Forest that could bring 200 jobs.
German retailer Lidl wants to build a regional distribution centre on a field on the edge of the National Park as part of its southcoast store expansion plans.
But the move to build the centre at Wade Park Farm, near junction two of the M27, has already angered some residents in the quiet nearby village of Ower.
They are worried about loss of views, light and noise pollution, extra traffic and plummeting house prices.
Accountant Paul Donaldson, 35, of Romsey Road, said: “It has really come out of the blue. This is the gateway to the National Park. It will wipe out the whole village.”
Netley Marsh parish council chairman Rob Giddings said: “We will have to consult our parishioners but the National Park Authority would have strong views on it as it is concerned about industrial development right on its border.”
However, Tory district councillor Derek Tipp welcomed the proposals.
“Personally I think we need some jobs and it’s probably not as sensitive a spot as some of the other parts of the Forest. It could be good news for people needing local jobs,” he said.
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