New store to bring 40 jobs into town
ANEW Aldi store will bring around 40 jobs to a Valley town, council planners have been told.
The German-owned supermarket giant has gained the green light from Rossendale council to build a new store at the “eyesore” derelict Forest Mill site, on Henrietta Street, Bacup.
It is expected to be open by 2023.
The council’s development control committee unanimously approved the planning application, which had the support of more than 600 residents, at its meeting on February 23.
Subject to finalising of planning conditions and section 106 planning arrangements, the 1,856 sq m store will include 110 car parking spaces, with free parking for up to three hours, which will not restricted to customers.
The meeting heard that retail impact objections made on behalf of rival firms including Morrisons and Lidl had been rejected.
Dan Brown, of planning agents Avison Young, outlined four key points in support - the creation of at least 40 jobs, deliverability of the scheme “within two years”, proximity to the town’s district centre meaning it had the potential to “keep Bacup residents shopping in Bacup”, and its “quality, stonefocused” design.
Following a question from Bacup councillor Jimmy Eaton, Mr Brown confirmed jobs would be a mixture of full and parttime roles.
The agreement includes a financial contribution of £37,800 to construct a shared cycle/pedestrian route in a northerly direction from Henrietta Street towards Lee Street, £4,000 towards way marker signs, £7,000 for a handrail and three lighting columns, and power to the steps located between Henrietta Street and Rochdale Road.
Ward councillor Barbara Ashworth, speaking as a supporter of the scheme, said: “To have it located so close to the town centre brings a great number of benefits, including the construction of pedestrian and cycleway through the town centre, and improving the signage to encourage people to go into the town centre, which is sadly lacking at the moment.
“I think it’s quite clear that people will be directed towards Bacup Market, small shops and cafes. Bacup residents do shop at Aldi; but by travelling to Rawtenstall or Burnley.”
Coun Ashworth said that the food store would create 40 jobs, working for “a company which is known not to pay the minimum wage, but to pay above the minimum wage.”
She added: “Improvements to the steps will serve as a bonus to the Royal Court Theatre.
“Three hours of unrestricted parking is a great gesture.”
Moving the plan for approval, Coun Eaton said: “This will create 40 to 50 full and part-time jobs, and create more competition between retail premises, leading to more competitive pricing.
“It is a derelict site and has been an eyesore for many, many years.
“This can only be good for the people of Bacup and surrounding areas.”