Lidl is in the “final stages” of preparing an official planning application to relocate one of its town centre stores.
Bosses say residents back the proposals to shut the branch in Shellons Street in Folkestone and open a new supermarket at East Station Goods Yard near Southern Way.
But one local councillor remains strongly opposed, warning it will worsen traffic gridlock in the area.
KentOnline previously reported how the retail giant had launched a consultation setting out its initial plans.
Now, it can be revealed Lidl is close to submitting an official proposal to Folkestone & Hythe District Council (FHDC).
More than three-quarters of respondents to the consultation expressed support for the proposed move and redevelopment of the site.
The German retailer expects the plans to progress in the new year.
A spokesperson said: “Lidl is proud to have served the local community for many years from our Shellons Street store and we are now looking to deliver an improved shopping experience for local residents.
“We are in the final stages of submitting a planning application to relocate to the East Station Goods Yard site, reflecting our ongoing commitment to the area and to providing an even better service to our customers.”
If approved, the relocation would bring the supermarket more than a mile closer to residents in the area whose nearest alternative store is currently the Tesco Express in Dover Road.
In response to the latest news, Cllr Mary Lawes, who represents Folkestone East on Kent County Council, reiterated her concerns about increased traffic if the relocation goes ahead.
“I will fight, I will absolutely fight,” the Reform member told KentOnline.
“I understand residents’ views, but they don’t realise how gridlocked it’s going to get.
“It’s already absolute chaos in the area at the moment.”
A leaflet delivered to nearby homes earlier this year said the current town centre supermarket is unable to meet Lidl’s “modern standards”.
Plans for the Southern Way site include more than 100 parking spaces, cycle racks near the entrance and a glazed frontage with an in-store bakery.
Proposed opening hours would be 8am to 10pm Monday to Saturday, and 10am to 4pm on Sundays.
The current town centre supermarket was built in 2001.
