A MAJORITY of resident have called for a new Aldi store in Pinvin to be given approval.

ALDI wants to build a new store with 1,254m² net retail floor space, just off the Wyre Piddle Bypass roundabout.

The plans were submitted to Wychavon District Council in July 2017 but have been recommended for refusal by planning officers.

More than 200 people have written to Wychavon District Council with the majority in support.

Resident of Pershore, Maureen Bourne, said: "I'm sure you will agree that it's a huge privilege to live in this stunning region of the UK, but at times, location can come at the cost of convenience.

"Currently, in this area, we have quite a limited choice of local supermarkets, particularly those with established and known quality of goods and service, which is so important to the many retirees in the community.

“To have a little more competition within the town could, I think, be good for the whole community of Pershore.

“I hope this project will soon become a reality and will look forward to welcoming a new and exciting additional choice for shopping.”

Resident of Pinvin, Mrs Warren commented on the application saying: “We will be one of the closest houses to this store and I can dearly say that it will be great for our community, as we do not currently have any reliable shops in the area”

Resident of Wyre Piddle, Ms Gall wrote in to the council to express her view: “I really want this planning application to be accepted. It's a fantastic opportunity for locals to get work (myself included) with an employer well known for good pay and conditions. It will also provide a good service and convenience to locals for their consumer needs.

“I'm 100 percent behind the application on behalf of myself and my children, whom no doubt could get part time jobs there whilst completing their studies at A level and beyond.”

Despite this support, there are residents worried about the traffic the application would cause.

Eleanor Creedmiles-Naraine said: "The site is hugely larger than the original planning permission granted for a petrol station.

"There is no safe or sustainable footpath or cycle path to the proposed entrance to the site, meaning increased traffic on the already overloaded and unsuitable B road, Wyre Hill.

"Existing and much more suitable plots are available directly opposite and on the Keytec East and West estates, closer to Pershore itself and with footpaths/roads and pavements.

"There will be noise and light pollution in what is currently a rural area. The 24 hours of operation will disturb and disrupt the lives of the the residents of Wyre Hill unacceptably."

Alan Wilson added: "At certain times of the day Pinvin is grid locked with traffic and this store at this location will make the situation much worse. "Also Aldi are trying to build a store when the original planning was for only a petrol station with a small shop. I also feel local Pershore business

will suffer if this store goes ahead."

Aldi regional managing director, Marius Manolescu said: “We are delighted with the strong and overwhelming support that the local community has given our plans for a new food store in Pinvin.

"It is clear that local people want to see the application approved, not only to provide more consumer choice but also to create around 40 new jobs at the site.

“The Vale of Evesham is a priority region for ALDI as we source much of our produce from suppliers located in the area. We are disappointed with the view taken by planning officers but feel confident that we can address all of the technical queries about the planning application.

“We hope that members of the planning committee take into account the strong desire of residents from across Pershore, Pinvin and Wyre Piddle to see the development happen and approve the plans later this month.”