After a petition was set up against plans for a new Aldi on Marsh Lane, the Stanmore Society has shared its reasons for supporting the proposal.
Stanmore Society committee member Peter Bradley said: “It’s a classic case of NIMBYism; the plan is really good news.
“With the cost-of-living crisis, anything that can reduce your weekly shop has got to be good news, and they employ loads of people above the minimum wage. There’ll be extra work.
“The site couldn’t be used for housing. The design will be an improvement to the current site.”
Matt Galloway, real estate director at Aldi, said: “We are delighted to hear the positive comments welcoming the economic benefits of the proposals and the increase in consumer choice.
“During our consultation period, we received 880 consultation responses, with 61 per cent of respondents stating their support for a new Aldi in Stanmore.
“The new store will also create up to 40 new jobs, paid at an industry-leading rate. The team is preparing a planning application for submission, and we will continue to engage and inform the local community on the proposals.”
Sam Parsons, who set up the petition, said: “At the recent presentation, Aldi said they expect 1,000 vehicle visits per day, equivalent to 2,000 journeys along Marsh Lane. Aldi were vague about how these vehicles would safely enter and exit the busy road. This problem would be exacerbated by the proposed new bus stops.
“I reject the accusation of NIMBYism. Residents from Belmont, Bushey, Canons Park, Edgware, Queensbury and Stanmore have signed the petition. Marsh Lane is a vital artery for local traffic. We all know how disastrous it can be if arteries get blocked and this is our greatest fear.”
There are already plenty of low-cost supermarkets in the immediate area and an Aldi in Kingsbury. Aldi stores are usually located in high streets and shopping parks where access and parking is easy, not in the middle of a residential area, beside a busy single carriageway road.
A supermarket will create the most traffic and so is the worst option for this site
There are already plenty of low-cost supermarkets in the immediate area and an Aldi in Kingsbury. Aldi stores are usually located in high streets and shopping parks where access and parking is easy, not in the middle of a residential area, beside a busy single carriageway road.
A supermarket will create the most traffic and so is the worst option for this site.