New Aldi store plans prompt residents’ outcry

Plans to build a new Aldi store as part of a new business park in Oldham have prompted outcry among residents.

The supermarket has applied to the council to build a new hub at land at Broadway Green Business Park in Chadderton.

The store would be 1,315 sqm in size, with an additional warehouse, staff and office facilities, and is proposed to be built off the new Lydia Becker Way road.

Currently the site is surrounded by undeveloped land which is proposed for industrial units, and a new residential development.

There would also be a ‘flexible use’ commercial unit which would be for the sale of food on the site, and potentially the sale of food and drink for consumption on the premises.

Since being submitted to the town hall there have been 45 objections, and one comment of support.

Residents have raised concerns over the impact on the road network and effect on nearby properties.

One objector states: “The current proposal will lead to a significant increase in traffic and air pollution from the proposed superstore and deliveries as well as the cars making a ‘detour’ to visit any proposed fast-food outlet.

“As a result, there will be a significant increase in noise, as well as light pollution from lighting around the new superstore.

“Currently, both the junctions between Lydia Becker Yay and Foxdenton Lane and Grimshaw Lane and Broadgate are barely able to cope with the current traffic demands.

“Any increase in traffic to these areas as a result of the proposed plans will lead to further significant congestion.”

Residents also raise fears that the new store would lead to a ‘distinct lack’ of privacy for local residents.

The size of the store would typically employ between 40 and 50 members of staff, with a further ten positions generated by the flexible-use commercial unit.

Under the plans there would be 121 car parking spaces, which includes eight disabled spaces, eight parent and child spaces and four electric vehicle charging spaces.

There would also be five motorcycle spaces and five bicycle hoops to accommodate ten bikes.

“The commercial hub will provide a focal point, generating activity and footfall, and helping to create an environment where people want to work,” the planning statement submitted with Aldi’s application says.

“Alongside the benefits that the commercial hub will bring to Broadway Green Business Park, its neighbourhood foodstore will help to serve the bulk food shopping needs of the residential development  which forms part of the wider strategic site’s redevelopment.

“The scheme will also enhance consumer choice and competition in the wider Chadderton area by introducing its first Aldi foodstore and thereby reducing residents’ need to travel to Oldham, Middleton or Failsworth to visit the retailer.”

Construction of the Aldi store and commercial unit is being targeted within 18 months of obtaining planning permission, according to the applicant.

“Aldi’s very presence is also anticipated to raise the profile of the site, investor confidence, and market interest in the scheme during a challenging economic period,” the company says.

A decision will be made on the plans no earlier than July 29.

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