A NUMBER of supermarkets are either being built or planned around Oxfordshire.

Plans for new shops have come and gone over the last few years as the big brands rethink store openings and scale back their presence in the face of increased competition and online sales.

But these are the current plans for new openings across the county. 

1. In South Oxfordshire, Lidl is planning to open a Wallingford store in early 2019.

Oxford Mail:

It follows a long 'will-they-won't-they' saga with Morrisons in the town, but the chain pulled out of a deal for a new superstore.

A Facebook group 'Wallingford Wants Morrisons' was set up and attracted 1,400 members. 

2. Another German supermarket could also be coming to Abingdon, where plans for Aldi's inclusion at Fairacres Retail Park have moved a step closer.

More detailed designs for the scheme at Fairacres Retail Park, off Marcham Road, have been submitted for approval to Vale of White Horse District Council planning department on behalf of owners Mays Properties Ltd.

It marks the second phase of redevelopment at the site, following work done in 2009 which included re-cladding and the building of a new unit.

Oxford Mail:

3. Midcounties Co-operative will open a store in Southmoor – just 10 minutes’ walk away from the national brand Co-op’s planned shop in Kingston Bagpuize.

The Co-op said it was not uncommon for it to open near other co-operatives, and said these two would not be the closest.

Oxford Mail:

4. Meanwhile, Marks and Spencer is currently building a new Food Hall in Botley at Seacourt Retail Park in Botley.

There was some doubt over the opening after M&S revealed it was scaling back the opening of stores across the UK, but work on the site continues.

Does your area need a new supermarket, or is there too little choice where you live?

Or maybe you never use them at all and opt for online delivery. Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.