LIDL’s plans to demolish a Hereford hotel has led to controversy, and now a landscape officer has said the new supermarket would do little for the look of the area.

With 48 objections, one comment and a letter of support the supermarkets planning application to demolish the Three Counties Hotel has caused controversy.

Keith Bond, of Alexandra Avenue in Hereford, said in his letter of support: "This is a much-needed addition to the city and will massively benefit the community.

"Giving more affordable food choices for those south of the river and allowing more of a range of choice."

But other residents have called the plans "stupid" and "ridiculous", while others had fears for children's safety if the development goes ahead.

Now a comment from a landscape officer has been submitted.

Mandy Neill, senior landscape officer, said: “The site is within the urban area of Hereford.

“The Hotel and its grounds are dated of its time; however, it is not a degraded, derelict or detracting feature in landscape or townscape terms.

“The green frontage and site trees do make a limited positive contribution to urban green infrastructure.

“The proposals do little to enhance the street scene along Belmont Road, with only a small amount of amenity planting to filter views of the car park.

“The building and glazed elevation is set a considerable way into the site beyond the car park and adjacent offsite area of trees.”

Comments for planning application P221090 can be made until May 9 with a target date for a decision May 31.