Forty jobs could be created if it is allowed to build its new "sustainable" multi-million pound store in Gloucestershire, according to supermarket giant Lidl.

The German-owned global chain store brand already has three stores in the county and it is no secret it still has eyes for the county.

In particular it went out to consultation on a proposal to build a new Lidl at Kingsway in Gloucester earlier this year and saw their public event attended by hundreds of residents keen to know more.

So buoyed was it by the feedback it has now officially submitted the plans for the 1,325square metres of shopping space which it says will create up to 40 new jobs.

Glen Stidever, Lidl UK's regional head of property, said: "We are delighted that a planning application has now been submitted to Gloucester City Council.

"If permitted, this would mark a multi-million pound investment in the area and the creation of new jobs when the store opens.

"We would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone for their support and feedback so far and look forward to receiving a decision in due course."

A public exhibition about the proposals was held in Kingsway on January 8 saw 318 people respond to a questionnaire about the site, with more than 82 per cent saying they were in favour.

The proposals are being put forward to Gloucester City Council by planning consultants DPP Planning on behalf of Gloucestershire developer Robert Hitchins Ltd.

Michael Plimmer, senior development manager for Robert Hitchins Ltd, said: "We are really encouraged by the reaction to our plans for the new store which we feel will provide residents with more choice and variety on their doorstep."

The supermarket would be on a site in Newhaven Road, next to Avionics House (see picture above).

Lidl UK has experienced continued growth in recent years. More than two thirds of which are sourced from British suppliers.

It has a portfolio of 730 UK stores in the UK and has plans to continue to open 50 new stores a year.