Plans for a new Morrisons supermarket in Norwich have been scrapped, but three new stores, including a Lidl, could take its place.

Morrisons was granted permission in 2014 to create a new store at Neatmarket, off Hall Road, which the company said would create 300 jobs.

That superstore was due to be built in existing units at the site, with B&Q handing over part of its space to the new store. But it never opened.

However, Morrisons has now lodged an application with Norwich City Council, seeking planning permission to subdivide the building up and to extend it, so it can be occupied by B&M, Smyths Toys and Lidl. B&Q would continue to trade from the building.

In documents submitted to the city council, PWA Consultants state, on behalf of Morrisons: 'The layout, scale and appearance of the proposed scheme will continue to provide an accessible, inclusive development ensuring a distinctive sense of place, and enhancing the immediate and wider environment.'

If a Lidl does open at the site, it could become the third superstore in barely a mile.

An Asda opened in Hall Road last November, while Aldi has permission to build a store in Hall Road retail park.

Just last week, Lidl saw proposals for a new store in Bishop Bridge Road, Norwich, turned down by members of the city council's planning committee.

What do you think of the number of supermarkets opening in Norwich? Write, giving full contact details, to Letters Editor, Prospect House, Rouen Road, Norwich NR1 1RE or email eveningnewsletters@archant.co.uk