BOSSES from Lidl say they are working with the Environment Agency to mitigate possible flooding as part of their plans to create their second store in Carlisle.

It comes as a petition which was sparked to urge the supermarket to back down on their proposals gathered dozens more signatures from angry residents in the past week.

On Monday, the German-owned chain held a public consultation at Botcherby Community Centre, situated across the road from the proposed site.

More than 120 people flocked to the four-hour session, which allowed concerned residents to share their views on the scheme with retail bosses.

The plans, which are yet to be formally submitted to Carlisle City Council, aim to build a multi-million pound shop that include 146 parking spaces, an in-store bakery, longer tills with dual packing, and would create up to 40 new jobs.

To combat anticipated issues for drivers heading to and from the store, a Lidl spokesman added that traffic lights on the Warwick Road and Victoria Road junction would be proposed to help improve road safety and provide a safe pedestrian crossing.

Numerous issues have been raised about the site, which was badly affected by flooding following Storm Desmond in December 2015, from those who signed the petition and John Kelsall, chairman of the Carlisle Flood Action group.

A spokesman from Lidl told The Cumberland News that the concerns of residents have been listened to, and the store planners are taking action.

The representative said: “ We are working with the Environment Agency to ensure measures are put in place to mitigate any flooding on site and to ensure that there is no increase in flood risk to off-site areas. “

They added that systems are being considered to control parking on match-days at nearby Carlisle United.

“We will put in place a car park management system to ensure availability of spaces for our customers, and would consider an ANPR system if required,” the spokesman said.

The consultation event was also attended by Botcherby Councillor Robert Betton.

He said: “There were a majority of residents who were flooded in 2015 and went along to voice their thoughts against the scheme, and cited their own concerns about the supermarket being built on an area known for flooding.

“However, there were a small amount who shared their support for the creation of a new supermarket.

“Anyone who wants to share their views on the scheme can get in touch with me and I’ll help in any way I can.”

David Murphy, Lidl GB regional head of property, said: “Our exhibition, to explain the proposals for a new store on Warwick Road, was very well attended with over 120 people visiting us.

“There were a broad range of issues raised including enthusiasm for more shopping choice in this area, as well as questions on traffic and flood mitigation.

“As part of our consultation process we distributed over 8,000 leaflets to the local community, as well as getting feedback from the exhibition.

“We’ve already received over 240 feedback forms so far and are encouraged that around two thirds have been returned in favour of our plans.

“All feedback we receive will be submitted to the council.

“We will continue to engage with the local community as the planning application progresses.”