LIDL has submitted new plans to build a £10 million supermarket in Hampshire - just weeks after the first application was rejected by one vote.

The discount chain’s original proposal for 2,000 square metre store in St John’s Street, Hythe, was thrown out by the district council two months ago after members criticised the design.

Cllr Steve Rippon-Swaine described the proposed development as a “large tin box” that resembled the type of building normally found on industrial estates.

He told fellow members of the planning committee: “It would just sit there and ruin the rest of the village.”

The scheme was defeated by seven votes to six - despite the promise of 40 jobs and claims the supermarket would boost the local economy.

The decision was greeted with groans of despair and cries of “absolute farce” from Lidl supporters sitting in the public gallery.

Now the company has redesigned the store in a bid to overcome the council’s objections.

The revised scheme has already sparked dozens of letters of support from people who say the new store will benefit the area by creating jobs and providing less affluent shoppers with an “affordable” supermarket.

Marilyn Betts, of Hampton Lane, Blackfield, said: “A much pleasing application which I fully support. It will breathe new life into the area.”

Michele Curry, of Hartley Walk, Dibden Purlieu, said: “The design looks attractive, unlike one or two other buildings in Hythe.”

The new design aims to ensure the proposed development blends in with the rest of Hythe.