Widespread public support for £5m Aldi supermarket, despite council’s reservations

Plans for a new Aldi supermarket on Formby bypass, in North Liverpool, have received widespread support from local residents, despite a less than enthusiastic reception from the local authority.

The supermarket chain first announced plans for a new £5m store in January this year.

It said the development could create 40 jobs on the site of a former commercial plant nursery/garden centre to the north of Moss Side in east Formby.

This closed a number of years ago, with some buildings demolished and some falling into disrepair.

In May the German retailer submitted a planning application to Sefton Council.

And it has now revealed it has received strong support from the local community following the submission, with more than 400 residents expressing their backing for the project.

Bryn Richards, real estate director for Aldi, said: “We’re thrilled with the level of support that has been sent to Sefton Council and would like to express our appreciation to everyone who took the time to share their views.

“The local demand for a discount food retailer is evident, and we firmly believe that this previously developed site is the perfect location for our store.

“In addition to serving the community’s needs, the proposed scheme would create approximately 40 local jobs and enhance pedestrian and cycle connectivity from Formby to the site and the surrounding countryside.”

Aldi said after an extensive search spanning several years, no alternative sites in Formby have been found to be suitable.

The proposed site, despite its previous development and non-conventional classification as Green Belt land, falls under the Green Belt category.

Sefton Council officers are currently withholding their support due to the site’s designation and not acknowledging its previously developed status.

The council is expected to deliver its decision on the project around August.