Supermarketrow set to be resolved
A LONG-running feud over the opening of a new supermarket may finally have come to an end.
Co-op has failed to lodge an appeal against Aldi’s most recent approval for development of a new store on Drumchapel’s Dundreath Avenue.
The low-cost supermarket was given the green light by Glasgow City Council to open a unit but faced opposition from rival retailer Cooperative Estates, who own Drumchapel Shopping Centre.
After two court challenges and two approvals granted by the council, the case was put forward for judicial review earlier this year but was found in favour of Aldi and the local authority.
Council lawyers confirmed no appeal has been lodged by Co-op and the planning approval still stands.
A Co-op spokesman said the firm “continues to review its options following the recent judgement but remains extremely disappointed at the council’s disregard of its own policies in granting consent in an out of town centre on an operational employment site.”
Councillor Paul Carey, Labour councillor for the area, said: “I am absolutely delighted that, after almost five years of legal wrangling, Aldi is finally going to be able to build a new store in Drumchapel.
“I have been trying to attract a supermarket to Drumchapel for 10 years now and I was delighted when Aldi indicated that it hoped to build in Drumchapel.
“It has taken two planning applications and two hearings at the Court of Session, but finally Aldi has its approval.”
He said he looked forward to the store being built in Drumchapel.The councillor said he will “continue to fight” for redevelopment in Drumchapel, and added: “I will continue to press other organisations to open new stores. I will continue to aim to regenerate Ward 14 and attract as many jobs as possible to my ward.”
SNP Councillor Malcolm Balfour also welcomed the news, and said: “The result is fantastic for the people of Drumchapel, and surrounding areas.”
He said this will bring between 30 and 40 jobs to the area.
An Aldi spokesman said: “We are delighted with the decision that will allow us to open a new store in Drumchapel.”