Decision on the proposed Lampeter Aldi store delayed again. Concerns raised about impact on local trade.
The planning committee reviewed the plan on Wednesday. Planners had suggested they reject the application. Officials said the topic would be deferred to March. This followed talks with Aldi’s representatives. A report suggested rejecting the store. It said the store wasn’t needed in Lampeter.
Planners worried it would hurt other stores. They said it could create forty jobs. The report mentioned negative effects. Aberaeron and Llandysul could suffer. They could lose ten percent of trade.
Aldi and the University still want the store. They say the store has strong local support. The store would sit on university land. It’s near Pontfaen playing fields. The land belongs to UWTSD.
Aldi wants the council to approve the plan. Rob Jones works for Aldi and emailed the planning department. He said to consider the benefits for the town. He mentioned Lidl’s store plan, too. Lidl wants a store near Cwmann. It’s across the river in Carmarthenshire.
Aldi faced delays on their application. Aldi still commits to local residents. If approved, they will build fast. Aldi thanks residents for their support. They want a positive decision from the council.
Aldi stated this is an important chance. It will show Lampeter welcomes business.
They will upgrade local facilities. They will also create jobs. UWTSD also supports the proposal. It supports economic growth in the area. They want to work with Aldi. A positive vote makes investment possible.