Supermarket plans approved despite objections

A supermarket chain has been given the green light to open a new store in East Sussex.

Councillors on Rother District Council's planning committee approved proposals to build a new Aldi store at the Jempsons Trading Estate site in Rye.

The application attracted opposition from family-run store Jempson's, which operates the town's only existing supermarket, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

People in the town said they welcomed the competition and choice, with committee members concluding the scheme's benefits would outweigh its impact.

During Thursday's meeting, Chris Creighton, an agent acting on behalf of the competing retailer, argued the development would have a significant impact on Jempson's - potentially even leading to its closure.

He said: "As you all know, Rye is a special place and the Jempson's store in Rye town centre is not just another supermarket.

"The impact on Jempson's itself will be severe. We estimate a turnover reduction of around 50%."

This view was challenged by Robert McClellan, representing Aldi, who pointed to public support of "over 85%" following a consultation.

"Many people told us that because Rye lacks a really affordable supermarket, they are currently travelling to Hastings, Ore or Tenterden for their weekly shopping," he said.

There was unanimous support from committee members, with several councillors noting the scheme had received just 35 objections compared with 329 letters of support.

The approved plans form part of a trio of applications which together propose a "comprehensive redevelopment" of the existing site, which currently contains industrial and warehousing units.

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.