Aldi formally unveils plans for new Dorset supermarket
Bosses at the budget German supermarket have formally submitted a planning application to Dorset Council for the shop in Canford Bottom, on the edge of the controversial ‘hamburger roundabout’.
Concerns were raised by residents on the potential increased traffic[1] along the A31 and on the roundabout at public consultations held in May and June.
Aldi admitted that the design “will need to demonstrate careful consideration when locating safe site access to ensure it doesn’t exacerbate the congestion issues reported on the nearby roundabout”.
Up to 40 new full and part-time jobs could be created from the £7m investment in the new supermarket, according to Aldi.
Plans drawn up show the supermarket, if approved by Dorset Council, will be built on the site used by Ellford Accident Repair Centre and require the demolition of two buildings.
Documents by agent Kendall Kingscott submitted to the council on behalf of Aldi reveal a number of trees would need to be lost to make way for the supermarket.
But the plans have been designed to “retain as many established trees and pockets of vegetation as possible”.
Kendall Kingscott added: “Additional new trees have been proposed near to the plant compound to soften yet define the separation of the service realm at the rear of the store from the car park.
“Similarly, a number of trees have been proposed near to the westerly boundary shared with the residential property on Canford Bottom Road, acting to further mitigate disturbance between the store and the home.”
The development could see 120 car parking spaces included as well as space for bicycles along with HGV access to the south side for deliveries.
Kendall Kingscott said: “The introduction of an Aldi store will improve the current retail offering to the local community by providing a modern, budget supermarket, enhancing consumer choice.”
A spokesman added: “A new store will improve access to high quality, affordable food[2] – helping to tackle the rising cost of living, while reducing the need to travel to supermarkets further afield.
“We are aware that there is a lack of discount supermarket options for residents in Canford Bottom, Wimborne and the surrounding areas.”
Comments on the application can be made to Dorset Council under the reference P/FUL/2024/04629. A decision will be made in due course.