Aldi names the big day
THE opening date of the new Aldi supermarket planned for Burscough has finally been revealed.
Located at the Ringtail Retail Park, the store was expected to open some time during 2016 but has been given an official opening date in early 2017.
Customers will be able to attend the grand opening of the store on Thursday, February 23, 2017.
The new store has created 40 jobs.
Currently, Aldi customers have to travel at least two miles to the nearest Aldi food stores, in Ormskirk and Meols Cop, which have both reached full capacity and are overtrading.
Aldi undertook a consultation with local people and businesses, before submitting their planning application back in April.
A spokesperson for Aldi said: “An overwhelming majority of the feedback received has been supportive, with over 94% of respondents expressing support for an Aldi store on the Ringtail Retail Park, either outright or with minor reservations.
“We are encouraged by the very high level of support received to date for the proposal.
“Residents have welcomed the introduction of a new Aldi store, stating that it would benefit the local area, be in a convenient location, and increase shopping choice.”
The objections received during the consultation centered on concerns over car parking, and the impact on local businesses.
Aldi addressed both issues and said: “A Transport Assessment has been submitted as part of this application to assess the impact of a new Aldi, and to ensure the existing parking provision on the site is suitable to accommodate the predicted levels of demand for a discount food store.
“The Aldi store would provide an alternative retail offer, which would significantly improve local shopping choice in Burscough – helping to keep spend local.
“Aldi has a unique offering and does not act as a one-stop shop.
“In an Aldi store you will not find hundreds of versions of the same thing. Therefore, an Aldi store meets only a proportion of customers’ convenience needs, meaning shoppers use other local stores to fulfil their grocery shopping requirements.
“In total, 33 respondents mentioned that a new Aldi food store would be beneficial for Burscough and help to retain spending within the local area.”
The store is 1,254sq m and will stock the same range of products found at other Aldi stores.