Aldi, the popular German discount chain, has submitted a revised planning application to build a new store in the car park of the Chorley Nissan dealership in Westgate, Burnley. The proposed 1,315 square meter store would create between 40 and 50 new jobs and lead to the closure of Aldi’s existing smaller premises in Burnley’s Canning Street. The new store would also feature a 141-space car park for the car dealership, providing a convenient and accessible location for customers.
Aldi’s original planning application was submitted in April 2022, but the company withdrew it in August to amend the design and ensure a “high-quality” building that blends into the character of the adjacent conservation area. The proposed store would be located in a gateway position, situated near the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and surrounded by historic buildings. The site is currently allocated for employment creation, but the planning officer’s report acknowledges that the historic nature of the surrounding buildings and the coal mining legacies of the area may impact the viability of a small-scale employment development.
Despite these challenges, the report concludes that the benefits of a high-quality development would outweigh the limited harm to the supply of employment sites in the Burnley area. The proposed store would not only provide employment opportunities but also enhance the gateway to Burnley town center and the setting of the Canalside Conservation Area. The design of the proposed store has been carefully considered to respect the distinctive character of the conservation area and the setting of listed buildings. The large scale, massing, and form of the proposed store are designed to be similar to a historic weaving shed, blending seamlessly into the surrounding environment.
Local residents have expressed support for the proposal, with 43 letters of support received by the council highlighting the convenience of having a food store on the west side of the town center. The proposed store would provide a welcome addition to the local retail scene, offering a wide range of products at affordable prices. While the closure of Aldi’s existing premises in Canning Street may lead to a loss of employment opportunities for some staff, the new store would create new jobs and provide a modern and convenient shopping experience for local residents.
The planning application has been recommended for approval by Burnley Council’s development control committee with 36 conditions. The committee will debate the proposal on Thursday, considering the benefits and potential impacts of the development. The proposed store would not only bring new jobs and investment to the area but also enhance the local economy and provide a boost to the town center.
The proposed store would also provide a range of benefits to the local community, including improved access to fresh produce, a wider range of products, and a more convenient shopping experience. The store would also provide a hub for local residents to socialize and meet, with a proposed community room and seating area. Additionally, the store would provide a range of services, including a pharmacy, a bakery, and a coffee shop, making it a one-stop-shop for local residents.
The proposed store would also have a positive impact on the local environment, with a focus on sustainability and reducing waste. The store would be designed to be energy-efficient, with solar panels and a green roof, and would also have a recycling program in place. The store would also provide a range of products that are locally sourced and sustainable, such as fresh produce and meat, to support the local economy and reduce carbon emissions.
In conclusion, the proposed Aldi store in Westgate, Burnley, offers a unique opportunity to enhance the local gateway and provide employment benefits to the community. The carefully considered design and location of the store make it an attractive proposal that is likely to be welcomed by local residents and businesses alike. The proposed store would not only bring new jobs and investment to the area but also enhance the local economy and provide a boost to the town center, making it a valuable addition to the local community.