DISCOUNT supermarket Lidl will create up to 70 jobs if plans to expand a North-East distribution centre are approved.

The fast growing Germany-based retailer has submitted a planning application for a major extension to its warehouse at Newton Aycliffe, County Durham.

If approval is granted by Durham County Council, Lidl will extend the existing building on Moordale Road, Aycliffe Business Park in two phases and build an extra 53 car parking spaces.

Phase one comprises a 10,000 sq m expansion, and the second phase will add a further 7,000 sq m of space, operating around the clock.

The move would see staff numbers at the warehouse, which serves Lidl stores across the North-East, Cumbria, Yorkshire and Humberside, grow from 270 to about 340 full and part time roles. The firm said the expansion is necessary to support the ongoing growth of its shops across the area.

The UK's big four supermarket chains - Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and Asda - have all seen their market shares drop over the past year as an increasing number of Britons flocked to discounters Aldi and Lidl. The pair now have a 9 per cent per cent share of the UK grocery market, up from 5.4 per cent in 2012, industry body Kantar has reported.

Lidl has sent letters to candidates who are contesting the Sedgefield seat at next month’s General Election requesting their support for the proposed work.

Labour candidate Phil Wilson said: “I was very happy to be contacted by Lidl to support their expansion plans.

"Many know I am a supporter of business in the region and have played a role in helping develop and bring new business to the constituency of Sedgefield. This has resulted in many new jobs and better security for working families which is something I will continue to fight for if I am re-elected.”

Also contesting the Sedgefield seat are Scott Wood (Con), Stephen Glenn (Lib Dem), Greg Robinson (Green) and John Leathley (Ukip).