Aldi bids to open new supermarket on former Focus DIY site in Kingswinford
Plans have now been submitted for a new Aldi supermarket in a Black Country town, which is expected to create 40 jobs.
The retailer's proposals are to create a new store off Dudley Road, Kingswinford, in the former Focus DIY and garden centre that has stood derelict for three years.
The supermarket would cover 1,350 square metres, with the current car park increased from 94 spaces to 105 in order to cater for more shoppers. It is expected to create around 40 jobs, both full-time and part-time.
In their application submitted to Dudley Council this week, Aldi states: "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 looks forward to becoming a considerate neighbour and part of the local community."
The design and access statement submitted as part of the plans says that vehicle access to the site would remain the same, while the existing central main entrance will be blocked off and a new lobby created to the far end of the building, with the current pedestrian path from Dudley Road relocated accordingly.
The prospect of a new store proved popular at a consultation event held in St Mary's Church Centre in Kingswinford back in September.
Aldi has invested in several new stores in the region, including on Wolverhampton Road, in Oldbury, and on the site of the former King Arthur pub on the Birmingham New Road, in Dudley, which opened last month.
Councillor Dave Tyler, who represents Kingswinford North and Wall Heath, said: "All the feedback I've had has been very positive.
"Everybody seems to be just asking 'when is it going to open?' So I'm hoping it will sail through the planning process."
He added: "You have to applaud a company that is coming into Kingswinford and creating jobs."
When the retailer first announced their plans for the site, a spokesman said: "We hope local residents share our excitement over bringing a new store to Kingswinford. We are planning to provide a much more attractive setting off Dudley Road by refurbishing the former Focus DIY unit.
"The site has been vacant for quite some time and our plans would see it brought back to life and provide a convenient new Aldi store for the local community."
