Supermarket giant moves ahead with new Surrey store over 10 years after it bought site
A budget supermarket giant has put forward plans to build a new store and 13 homes on a derelict pub site on the Surrey borders.
Lidl has promised up to 40 jobs and what it calls a “much-needed” boost to local shopping options in Hamsey Green.
If approved, the multi-million-pound scheme off Tithepit Shaw Lane would see the former Good Companions pub site demolished and replaced with a modern store featuring a bakery, baby-changing toilets, rapid electric vehicle chargers and dedicated parent-and-child parking.
Above and alongside the shop, the German company wants to build six three-bed townhouses and seven two- and three-bed flats, all for social rent. Lidl says the project would clean up the currently vacant, fly-tipped site and improve access to affordable groceries for nearby families.
The German budget grocery store started testing the water and consulting residents for feedback on the proposal in February 2025.
Lidl bought the abandoned pub site in 2012. The company’s previous three plans for the site (submitted in 2012, 2013 and 2016) were rejected for traffic and safety reasons.
In response to feedback during consultation, the plans now include a new pedestrian crossing by Hamsey Green Primary School, a proposed drop in the speed limit from 30mph to 20mph along Tithepit Shaw Lane, and traffic-calming measures at the junction with Limpsfield Road.
Max Clapton, Lidl GB’s regional head of property, said in a press release: “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.”
Lidl said the scheme would support nearby businesses through more footfall and linked trips.
The supermarket chain has been stepping up its investment across London, including a recent £285 million expansion of its Belvedere warehouse.
As the site straddles both Croydon and Warlingham, applications have been sent to both Croydon Council and Tandridge District Council.
Residents can view the plans and comment on the council’s website.