Views sought on plans for new Aldi store

Residents have been encouraged to share their opinions on proposals for a new Aldi supermarket.

The food retailer has announced a "£10m investment plan" for the supermarket in Saltash, Cornwall. It said if planning permission was granted by Cornwall Council, the store would provide about 40 jobs and 100 customer car parking spaces.

Aldi said it was holding a virtual exhibition of its plans for the site off Callington Road, which is open for comments until Wednesday, 4 February. There is also an in-person exhibition at Saltash Rugby Club, Moorlands Lane, on Wednesday 28 January from 15:00-19:00 GMT.

Some residents have already expressed mixed views on the plans in online forums.

Concerns include the impact on traffic flow in the area: "It will be a disaster to allow it to go ahead on Callington Road," Jane Phillips commented.

Terry Ottaway added the new supermarket "might cause a few problems with the traffic".

Aldi's proposal states the new store would reduce the need for people to make car journeys to other supermarkets - easing pressure on Carkeel roundabout and other roads and junctions in Saltash.

Clare Glasgow wrote on Facebook that she favoured the plan and said "it would save me going to Plymouth or Liskeard" for shopping.

Saltash Rugby Football Club posted an official club statement on Facebook, announcing their concerns: "As it stands, the club does not stand to gain anything from this development.

"We are not opposed to Aldi as a retailer; however, we strongly believe that this development would be better located elsewhere, allowing Lower Burraton Field to remain a green space-something Saltash has very little of.

"To date, there has been no consideration given to the loss of space, increased pressure on facilities, or the added risks to those who use and manage the site."

Aldi said it is "keen to consult with the community" before making a planning submission so it can "hear your views and take those into account".

Saltash Town Council has encouraged residents to take part in the consultation.

A spokesman said: "The outcome of this consultation will be reported in a statement of community involvement submitted with the planning application," they said.

"Saltash Town Council encourages residents to share their thoughts and participate in shaping the future of our town."

Follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].