August 16, 2016 4.05 pm This story is over 98 months old

Video: End of an era as North Hykeham restaurant is demolished for new Lidl

Contractors have rolled in to demolish the former Ocean Chinese Restaurant in North Hykeham, making way for the construction of a 3,867 square foot Lidl supermarket. Plans for the two-storey shop, which will be the third Lidl in the Lincoln area, were controversially approved in January, signalling the demolition of the restaurant and a number of surrounding homes. Some…

Contractors have rolled in to demolish the former Ocean Chinese Restaurant in North Hykeham, making way for the construction of a 3,867 square foot Lidl supermarket.

Plans for the two-storey shop, which will be the third Lidl in the Lincoln area, were controversially approved in January, signalling the demolition of the restaurant and a number of surrounding homes.

Some 38 jobs will be created in the move and 113 parking spaces will be available on site off Newark Road.

Local resident Andrew Hunter was on hand to film the demolition work beginning on site, sparking a huge response on social media on Tuesday, August 16.

Residents previously objected to plans when they were lodged with North Kesteven District Council, claiming the shop was too close to existing shopping animates and voicing concerns for an increase in traffic on the busy road.

As the video was quickly shared, former customers of the popular Chinese restaurant, and its predecessor Ye Olde Bubbling Kettle, said their goodbyes.

John Overton said: “Had some good meals there when working across the road in 1957, great burgers as well.”

Sarah Alcock added: “Really sad day for us as it was our family home and business for generations. Many happy days here as kids.”

Others continued to express their disagreement with the council’s approval of the plans.

Marilyn Shepley said: “I can’t believe it. Why are six perfectly good houses and a restaurant being pulled down for yet another Lidl […] when we have umpteen supermarkets already in Lincoln?”

Keith Hebblewhite said: “What a waste of a lovely building. Newark Road will be a nightmare for traffic. Even worse than it is now.”