LIDL and B&M could soon be opening their doors in Dunbar as part of ambitious plans for a major development on the outskirts of the town.

Up to 80 jobs could be created through the arrival of the two national stores, if plans for DunBear Park are given the green light.

A planning application for the two businesses, to the east of Dunbar Garden Centre, has been sent to East Lothian Council.

The joint application by Hallhill Developments Limited, Lidl and B&M follows planning applications for roads, footpaths and essential infrastructure submitted last year, together with renewable energy proposals for the site.

The overall 54.3-acre development is designed around The DunBear, the five-metre high sculpture which pays tribute to Dunbar-born naturalist John Muir, who is credited with playing a key role in the establishment of National Parks in the USA.

Already, Lidl and B&M have stores in Prestonpans and Musselburgh.

Ken Ross, from Hallhill Developments Limited, was pleased to announce the news.

He said: “At a time when retailers are scaling back due to the pandemic, it is great to be able to announce that these operators will be coming to DunBear Park.

“This will address the increased demand and provide greater competition, key themes that came from the community consultation exercise we undertook.

“This £30 million investment will deliver up to 80 much-needed new jobs to the local community, which is a clear vote of confidence in this location.

“It is a clear vote of confidence in this location and will also serve to deliver the necessary infrastructure to allow us to bring forward further investment into Dunbar.”