Aldi opens a public consultation on Macduff store proposal

Supermarket chain Aldi who are bringing forward proposals for a new store on Duff Street in Macduff are asking the public for their comments on the scheme.

If approved, it would see the first Aldi delivered in the area, and represent an investment of £3.27 million in the town.

It will create up to 35 local jobs within the store, together with new jobs during construction and within the Aldi supply chain.

Due to the current situation regarding coronavirus it has not been possible for Aldi to hold traditional public exhibitions.

Aldi will therefore be holding an online consultation which is now open and runs until the September 29 where all those with an interest in the proposals can view and importantly respond with feedback to the project team on the development.

The online consultation will be supplemented by an interactive question and answer session with Aldi and the project team that will be held on the Wednesday, September 15 from 6pm-8pm via Zoom.

Philip Johnston, Aldi’s property director for Scotland said: ''I have long held aspirations to bring our award-winning discount offer to the area and it was great to be able to discuss our plans with representatives of the Community Council earlier this year.

"I am now delighted to be coming forward with the proposals and getting the public consultation underway.’’

"The store is designed to meet the shopping needs of residents not only living within the local area, but importantly add an additional choice for residents as well as retaining local spend which may have been lost to other areas.

"Whilst it may not be possible to meet in person at this time due to Covid-19, we are monitoring the current situation and should circumstances change we would welcome the opportunity to add in person drop in sessions to our consultation programme’’.

"We look forward to working with the people of Macduff and the surrounding towns so that they have an opportunity to view, and importantly provide feedback on the proposals.’’

The project website is: https://aldiconsultation.co.uk/macduff

Following the online consultation, it is anticipated that a planning application for the new store which is planned to include 106 parking spaces will be lodged with Aberdeenshire Council in the autumn, with the new premises, should it be approved, open and welcoming shoppers in October 2023.

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