PLANS to replace Pershore Market with a supermarket have been welcomed.

Aldi’s plan to open a store in Pershore will kick-start a wider transformation of the town centre - according to the leader of Wychavon District Council, councillor Bradley Thomas.

This comes after council officers met with representatives of the supermarket, the UK’s fourth biggest, following the announcement they had purchased the indoor market off King George’s Way.

Councillor Bradley Thomas said: “This is good news for residents who in future will have the option to shop at two of the most price competitive supermarkets in the country at a time when the cost of living is rising.

“This latest application from Aldi will draw people into the heart of the town centre, providing opportunities to further boost footfall for surrounding retailers and playing a role in that wider vision to secure a vibrant and thriving future for Pershore Town Centre.”

READ MORE: Supermarket giant agrees to buy Pershore Market

Evesham Journal: Aldi will consult with the community before submitting a planning application Aldi will consult with the community before submitting a planning application (Image: Pershore Market)

The council’s meeting with Aldi focused on the retailer’s plans and what they will do to support the vision set out in the Pershore Town Centre Investment Prospectus published last year.

Launched last May, the prospectus set out several potential scenarios for the way Pershore could be transformed to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Several ‘game changer’ sites were identified, including Pershore Market, which had been up for sale for a number of years.

However, not all have welcomed the plan.

One Evesham Journal reader, Ann Evans, said: "This will be the demise of a beautiful little town. I am so very sad to see the market go."

Another, Yvonne Fairbairn, said: "Oh dear, what dreadful news.

"The market is a treat and joy - the good old-fashioned shopping."

READ MORE: 'Please back businesses at Pershore Market'

Aldi will now look to secure planning permission and has promised to consult with the community before submitting an application.

Simon Glover, real estate director at Aldi, said: “An Aldi store in Pershore will bring new jobs and footfall to the town centre, as well as providing more choice for shoppers, with high-quality products at low prices.

“We look forward to working collaboratively with the council and local people in Pershore to develop a scheme that positively contributes to the town centre and wider community.

“The public consultation that will launch shortly will give people the opportunity to help shape the plans for the redevelopment of their town centre.”