CAMPAIGNERS are fighting plans to build an “industrial-style monolith” beside a historic church in a Hampshire village.

Lidl’s application to build a supermarket in the centre of Hythe has sparked more than 40 objections from locals angry at the design and the store’s potential impact on the village.

The discount giant is seeking consent to redevelop part of a 160-space car park next to the Grade II listed St John’s Church.

Critics claim the 2,000 sqm store will create extra traffic problems in the village as well as increasing the shortage of parking spaces for mourners attending funerals at the church, which is among the objectors.

The vicar, the Rev Jo Elvidge, said: “Mourners are already experiencing parking difficulties in Hythe.

“The loss of parking spaces will cause the bereaved further distress and anxiety. Having to drive around seeking somewhere to park when the service is due to begin will be stressful.”

But most of the controversy centres on the appearance of the proposed new supermarket.

In a letter to New Forest District Council, Julie Nason, of Davidson Close, Hythe, describes it as a “concrete monolith” that is “completely out of keeping”.

Grace Ingram, of School Road, Hythe, added: “It’s unimaginative, cheap-looking and totally unsympathetic to the surrounding area.” Peter Thornett, of Main Road, Dibden, is also calling for the application to be rejected.

His letter says: “The proposed building is a mono slab of mainly glass and steel and lacks any architectural merit considering it is adjacent to a conservation area. This building would be more appropriate on an industrial estate.”

Diane Baker adds: “It will destroy the ambience of the area and severely damage the image of Hythe, which is treasured by residents and visitors.”

Some of the other objectors are worried about the potential impact on grieving families attending funerals at the 140-year-old church.

According to Lidl the council says the site is the most suitable location for a new food outlet.

The company’s planning application cites the “standardised design” of Lidl stores but adds: “In this case the design has been significantly adapted to better relate to the specific constraints of the site.

“The external walls have been remodelled to better reflect and integrate with the context of Hythe centre and the adjacent conservation area.”

Addressing the issue of parking the application says a survey carried out by the council in 2013 found that the car park was usually only half full.

It adds: “Additional land has been identified by the council as being available should parking demand in the village increase in the future.”