Plans to open Aldi in Taunton opposed in Taunton Deane Council planning report

The firm, which has been looking to set up in the area for several years, wants to build a foodstore on the former J&K Aquatics site in Bridgwater Road, Bathpool.

The existing buildings would be demolished and replaced by a single-storey store, along with warehouse, office and staff areas to the rear and parking for 94 vehicles.

Aldi would open from 8am to 10pm six days a week and for a shorter period on Sundays and claims it would create 50 jobs, 17 of them full-time, with estimates it could generate an annual turnover of almost £10million.

But councillors at Taunton Deane Borough Council's planning meeting next Wednesday (July 13) are being recommended to reject the application.

An officer's report says the development would negatively impact on Taunton town centre, with the proposed store and another one earmarked for Firepool having the potential to put the Morrisons and Sainsbury's outlets out of business.

Waitrose has already looked into opening at Firepool, although no contract has been signed, and the officer suggests Aldi could look at setting up there or at Tangier, near the Tesco and Lidl shops.

The report also says Aldi would endanger the proposed district centre in Monkton Heathfield, where thousands of new homes are being built, while it would cause "significant increase" in traffic along that section of the busy A38 and Creech Castle junction.

And it claims a number of employment units instead of a food store could create around 132 jobs at start-up and small businesses.

West Monkton Parish Council would only support a small Aldi - referring to the application it says: "The impact on the local community will be intrusive in terms of lighting and traffic noise and it is strongly suggested that the large illuminated roadside sign is hazardous, an unnecessary distraction to drivers."

A Somerset County Council report says the proposed store "would be prejudicial to highway safety".

A total of five letters of objections have been sent to the Deane, voicing concerns mainly over noise and traffic.

But a further 39 people have written supporting the proposals, with people looking forward to a local food outlet with competitive prices, the revitalisation of an eyesore and the ability to walk to the shop rather than drive.

The community could also benefit from a community levy on Aldi, which would see almost £300,000 invested in the local infrastructure.

An Aldi spokesperson said: “Aldi is disappointed to hear that officers are recommending the planning application for an Aldi on Bridgwater Road is refused.

"The plans for an Aldi have attracted overwhelming support from local people, with 92 per cent of respondents to our consultation confirming they support the plans.

“Local ward councillors have been very helpful and have been working with Aldi representatives to try to overcome various issues and Aldi remains confident that the issues raised by officers can be overcome.

“Many residents have told us they currently have to travel to places such as Bridgwater for their food shop, and said Bathpool cannot wait any longer for a food store.

"They also welcome the numerous benefits Aldi can bring to the area, including up to 50 full and part time jobs.

“We look forward to presenting our case at planning committee next week and hope councillors on the planning committee will vote to approve the application, after considering all the merits.

"We appreciate all the support we have received from residents and this will remain important right up until a decision is made.

"Local residents are encouraged to attend the planning committee at 5pm on July 13.

"If they would like to speak at the meeting, they need to register in advance.

"For further information regarding the proposals or committee, residents can call the project information line on 020-73578000 or e-mail ALDITaunton@planningpotential.co.uk"