RESIDENTS can still have their say on the proposals for the new Aldi food store in Bromsgrove town centre.
An exhibition on the plans at Bromsgrove Sporting FC last Thursday (July 9) saw 85 residents go along to view the supermarket’s proposals and give their opinions on them.
Aldi has analysed the responses so far, which show 84 per cent strongly supports the plans in principle.
The multi-million pound redevelopment is earmarked for land off Birmingham Road which currently houses the former DDS&S Club, disused car showroom and Imagination Street.
As well as the store, which will bring up to 40 full and part-time jobs, there will also be a large car park and landscaping.
Imagination Street has been open for six years and plans to remain in Bromsgrove.
The popular play centre is trading as usual and will continue to do so throughout the planning process.
If Aldi is granted planning permission Imagination Street would remain open at the site until shortly before work begins. The plan then is for the co-owners to find another site in the town.
Matt Jinks, co-owner of Imagination Street, said: “It is business as usual for the foreseeable future.
“We’ve established a strong business at the heart of Bromsgrove’s community and we’re committed to remaining in the town. “We’re in discussions with Aldi and intend to remain at our existing premises as long as possible.
“If the proposed store is granted planning permission, we hope to work with Aldi to ensure a smooth transition to alternative premises in the town and we’re already discussing suitable sites with the council and other funding bodies.”
An Aldi spokesperson said they were delighted with the positive support so far, adding the existing Sherwood Road store is particularly popular and conversations with residents had reinforced that there was a demand for a second store in the town.
“When pledging their support, people have cited a reduced need to travel, Aldi’s great-value produce, and the opportunity to increase footfall for existing traders in Bromsgrove town centre.”
He thanked everyone who had had their say so far and urged anyone who wanted to give their views to e-mail [email protected] or visit www.aldiconsultation.co.uk/bromsgrove – the projects dedicated website.
The deadline for feedback in next Friday (July 24), after that it will all be collated and considered before the final planning application is prepared.
For more information on the project, call the Freephone information line on 0800 298 7040.
