Prescot will be getting a major new Aldi after plans were approved.
The proposals, for a new Aldi store at the 3.8-hectare former BICC site on Cables Way in Prescot, were objected to by rival supermarket giants Tesco and Asda.
Tesco, in particular, submitted numerous objections, including last minute representations, to dispute whether Aldi had followed the correct planning policies when considering alternative sites and the impact of the store on other shops.
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However, at a meeting of Knowsley Council’s Planning Committee held at Huyton municipal buildings last night, Tesco’s objections were dismissed, with one councillor describing it as a “cheek”.
The beginning of the discussion involved some legal advice to councillors after both Aldi and Tesco circulated documents to members of the planning committee prior to the meeting.
Councillors were advised to take no notice of the documents, with an officer stating: “It is the officer’s report members should rely on” in making any decisions about the planning application.
Cllr Carl Cashman said: “There is a feeling in Prescot that people are excited for this kind of store to come to the town.”
Cllr Cashman asked a representative of Aldi whether the store was keen to integrate into the community. Mr Richards, representing Aldi said he would be “employing local people, ensuring that we are a cheap competitor” and hoped to add disposable income to the area by offering discounted products.
Cllr Ian Smith spoke of a “minor concern” around access to and from the employment offices which would come out close to the roundabout. He said: “I just worry that the highways have got it right in terms of being able to cope with quite a busy road” as an access route.
A council officer responded to the issue raised stating there had been a “robust review” into the traffic implications of the development. Another added that measurements and analysis was carried out over access close to the roundabout and it was found “acceptable” following minor amendments.
Cllr Denise Allen said: “I just feel this is a win, win, win for Prescot” referring to job opportunities for local residents and the positive comments received in favour of the application from people living in the area.
Referring to the objections raised by Tesco about the possible negative impact of the shop on other outlets in Prescot, Cllr Cashman said: “I think they’ve got a little bit of a cheek if I’m honest.
“When they came into the town they obviously negatively impacted some of the smaller independent businesses and now they’re making the case that Aldi is doing the same thing so I think that’s quite hypocritical.”
Cllr Kai Taylor said he had been “puzzled” to receive communications from Tesco and Aldi prior to the meeting. He said: “It just seemed quite strange to receive it.”
Cllr Taylor said: “We need to look at the merits” including the economic and sustainability benefits- and the number of planning conditions imposed to address concerns raised.
He added: “With those conditions attached I’m all for approving this recommendation.”
Labour councillor Ken McGlashan said the plan “meets our aspirations all the way along and I full support this.”
Councillors then voted unanimously to approve the plans, which includes full permission for the supermarket and two employment units, as well as outline permission for two drive-throughs and a pub.
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