Protesters against Aldi plan 'a sight to behold'

About 160 people have taken part in a protest in Cornwall over plans to build an Aldi supermarket on a green field used by a local rugby club.

The food retailer has announced a £10m investment plan for the supermarket in Saltash, on ground used by Saltash Rugby Club for youth training.

Club coach and former player Geoff Thompson said it was "a sight to behold" to see the protesters near the field on Wednesday.

Elliott Saunders, real estate director for Aldi, said the retailer was "listening and reviewing feedback from the community" with plans to "agree appropriate measures to mitigate any loss of open space" in its planning application.

Thompson, who organised the protest, said the turnout was "fantastic" and "really impactful".

"We had a lot of the youth set-up along with their parents, we had residents of Saltash come out for it in support of the cause."

He added: "It was a sight to behold to see them all come out fighting for something that is very important to them.

"I think it sent a very clear message to Aldi, Cornwall Council and Saltash Town Council that an Aldi store is not wanted on that green space."

Thompson, who was senior club captain when he played for Saltash RFC, said he had "had his time" and the area now needed protection for future generations.

"The vast majority of people are not opposed to an Aldi in Saltash, it's about where they are putting it and the massive impact on kids," he said.

Saunders said the project team at Aldi was carrying out a "detailed audit of current and future open space provision" in Saltash.

"Once this has been carried out, it is our aim to work alongside the council and key stakeholders, including Saltash Rugby Club, to agree appropriate measures to mitigate any loss of open space.

"The findings will be included within our planning application, and we will ensure that the public is kept up to date as our plans progress."

He added: "Our proposal for Saltash represents a £10m investment: creating around 40 new, local jobs with sector-leading pay, and improving access to Aldi's award-winning range of high-quality food at low prices."

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