Plans for a new Lidl store in Kings Langley near the M25 have sparked traffic fears with some branding it a "ridiculous idea".

The supermarket giant has exchanged contracts on the World of Water site in Watford Road and will submit a planning application in due course.

The move met with a mixed reaction with some "over the moon" while others claimed it would exacerbate traffic issues already plaguing the area. 

Councillor Sara Bedford said: “Whilst a Lidl supermarket will be attractive to many residents, I’m very concerned about an increased number of vehicles turning right in either direction across the busy A41.

A stock image of a Lidl store. Credit: PA

A stock image of a Lidl store. Credit: PA

“In addition, additional traffic on the Hunton Bridge roundabout will add to existing congestion.”

Many readers echoed her fears with some blasting the plans as "ridiculous" and "accidents waiting to happen".

Caroline Fox said: “It’s difficult enough turning right onto the Hempstead Road from Courtlands Drive already. We don’t need anymore traffic on the Hempstead Road!”

Malcolm Allport added: “(It’s a) ridiculous idea, it’s bad enough now trying to get out of World of Water with idiots coming off the roundabout at stupidly high speeds.”

Vanessa Kelly Gibbs wrote: “Never heard anything so stupid. Accidents waiting to happen over that bridge and crossroads.”

Ben Chemonemo also questioned the plans saying “there’s already enough traffic on this stretch of road at peak times”. 

However, many people were also excited by the prospect with some saying they are “over the moon” and that the shop “would be handy”.

A Lidl spokesperson said: “We are delighted to confirm that we have exchanged contracts on the World of Water site on Watford Road, Kings Langley.

“We are currently in the process of finalising plans ahead of submitting planning and look forward to sharing more information with the local community in due course.”