40 new jobs on the cards under giant new Aldi plans

The German retail giant is hoping to bring a 17,200 sq ft outlet to Old Horns Crescent near Asda and has now entered a formal bid to Birmingham City Council.

Planning documents declare the new shop will be a modern design and state: "Aldi have adapted their design philosophy in recent years to reflect the importance now given to good design in government planning policy and to consolidate the image of the company as an innovative, high quality retailer.

"Aldi's building design is now more flexible in its approach, seeking to achieve an appropriate compromise between the retention of corporate identity and trading profile, the desire to create stimulating modern buildings and the need for environmental design.

"The entrance is to have a large glazed shopfront and canopy providing focus to the main elevation.

"The illuminated canopy also provides a covered area over the trolley store and bicycle stands."

There will be around 85 car parking spaces for shoppers including six disabled slots and six allocated for parent and child spaces.

There will also be five bicycle hoops.

Aldi stated they could introduce limits and restrictions on drivers if necessary which would be monitored by Parking Eye.

It is expected around 40 jobs will be created by the new supermarket.

Aldi held a public consultation on the plans at Pheasey Park Farm Community Centre back in January.

The main concern raised by locals surrounded potential traffic pressure on the roundabout which links Queslett Road, Beacon Road and Aldridge Road.

But Aldi has touted the transport links of site.

A development document said: "The site is easily accessible by public transport; bus stops are located close to the store along Queslett Road.

"Existing controlled and uncontrolled crossings exist over local roads provide excellent permeability for pedestrians and cyclists.

"Our car park proposals are within the parking provision maximum standards, and can be controlled (if necessary) using time limits and restrictions using a 'parking eye' facility which records each vehicles number plate on entry into the site."

But most people who attended the exhibition appeared to be in favour of Aldi coming to town with many stating it would bring welcome competition to Asda.

The firm declared 70 per cent of residents supported the proposal.

In summary Aldi's 'design and access statement' said: "We feel the proposals represent a well thought out and sensitive response within the constraints of the site.

"The Aldi, 'deep discount' retail store provides an amenity to the local area, which is currently lacking, along with the creation of local jobs both now and at a later date.

"Aldi held a public exhibition to obtain the views of the local community and the outcomes of this are contained in a Statement of Community Involvement by Remarkable.

"Aldi looks forward to becoming a considerate neighbour and part of the local community."