News 

Planning Potential secure consent for Taunton's first ALDI

14 July 2016

In front of a gallery of local residents, Committee members concluded that the benefits of an ALDI would strongly outweigh any potential impact on proposed and existing food retailers and should be approved.

Despite an officer recommendation for refusal, Councillors voted to approve ALDI’s proposals for a new store on Bridgwater Road in Taunton at Planning Committee last night.

Planning officers reported the application should be refused on sequential, impact and highways grounds, but the Planning Potential team explained to members how these issues could be overcome.

In front of a gallery of local residents, Committee members concluded that the benefits of an ALDI would strongly outweigh any potential impact on proposed and existing food retailers and should be approved, with one Committee member suggesting that Taunton must send a clear message that they are open for business.

Planning Potential’s in-house communications team worked alongside the planning team to gather local support for ALDI. 92% of respondents to the consultation demonstrated support for ALDI and a ward member noted his in-box had been busier than ever before. A Parish Councillor and  immediate site neighbours, spoke in support of ALDI at the meeting.  

Dan Templeton, who leads Planning Potential’s Bristol office stated, “We are fortunate to be working with a dynamic, fast-moving client who is keen to invest in towns across the south west. In Taunton we worked closely with County Highways, Borough Council officers, Councillors and local people to overcome issues and amended the highways elements of the scheme in response to their feedback.  Local Councillors acknowledged ALDI’s commitment to delivering the project and we are delighted to have their approval to open a new foodstore.”