Two-year wait for decision on Aldi store plan in Poole

The retailer wants to build a shop on the former Parrs Confectionary site in Alder Road.

After having a previous scheme was rejected by BCP Council’s planning committee in November 2019, Aldi submitted a revised scheme in August 2020.

Two years on and the council still has not given a verdict on the application, which includes a coffee shop.

The wait could be over soon with the local authority saying it is aiming to put the proposal before next month’s planning committee.

Lee McCandless, property director for Aldi, said: “We are frustrated that this new store has still not been approved, or even considered.

“These plans could represent a multi-million-pound investment in the local area and provide 40 new jobs for local people. It is clear the local community want a new high quality discount food store in their local area with more than 360 supportive comments registered on BCP council’s planning portal.

“Locals have stated that an Aldi in walking distance for so many in Branksome will reduce the need for long journeys and provide an opportunity for an award-winning shopping experience on their doorstep.

“We are hoping our application will be approved by the council soon.”

There have been just shy of 500 overall responses during the protracted public consultation on the planning portal, including a recent glut of comments of 34 in support and four objections.

The site has disused since 2013 when The Tangerine Sugar Confectionery factory shut, with the loss of 75 full time jobs.

A BCP Council spokesperson said: "We have been actively working with the applicants to address the issues and concerns that resulted in the refusal in the first place.

“This has involved a review of complex planning and legal issues over time, which has unfortunately resulted in a delay.

“However, we are close to concluding the assessment and aiming to bring this to the September Planning Committee for decision."