Aldi store plans are submitted

A DEVELOPMENT with a new Aldi and a drive-through Costa Coffee in Torquay has come a step closer.

The retailer and its partners have submitted a planning application to Torbay Council for the multi-million pound scheme at Kerswell Gardens, near the junction of the South Devon Highway.

The company said the development would provide more than 80 new jobs.

The scheme includes a new Aldi store, new premises for Devon Garden Machinery, a drive-through Costa Coffee shop, another drive-through restaurant and takeaway, and a site for employment space.

A statement from the retailer said: “This significant investment has the potential to generate over 80 new jobs, while retaining existing jobs at Devon Garden Machinery.” The retailer said more than 4,200 households and businesses were consulted on the proposals, with 60% of respondents in favour.

It said popular reasons for support included the need for a local Aldi to save extra trips out of the area, and the proposals being an improvement on the current appearance of the site.

Steve Dommett, partner at Devon Garden Machinery, said the firm was delighted at the support from the community.

He said: “Our family business has been operating on the same site in Torquay for 36 years, and, now we have outgrown our current premises, we very much want to stay in the local area. These proposals will provide us with purpose-built premises, and also mean we can expand and provide additional local employment.”

The application has now been submitted to Torbay Council and there will be a period of public consultation before a decision.