Location for new Aldi supermarket in Wiltshire called 'perfect'

Aldi recently unveiled proposals to build a new £10 million store on land south of the A361 London Road in Devizes, currently a motorcycle training facility.

The scheme, for which a planning application has not yet been submitted, would also include a drive-through coffee shop whose operator has not been confirmed.

A public consultation will run until January 18, and feedback will be examined before the application is finalised.

The proposals have split residents after the news was shared on Facebook.

Many are excited about the possibility of another supermarket and jobs for locals, with multiple people labelling the proposed location “perfect.”

The Bike School site (Image: Newsquest)

Jonathan Manning said: “Great idea, the town needs modernising, and would be a great way to bring more trade in.”

Alison Fletcher added: “More shops opening is just what this town needs… cannot come soon enough.”

“It’s a significant investment for the town”, said Matt Cadman.

“As more houses go up in Devizes, we need to build the infrastructure that supports them.”

Most of those opposed to the plans were concerned about the risk of increasing traffic on the busy London Road.

Justin Manuel said: “London Road traffic will be worse in both directions, and it's already a pain on weekends.”

Others were upset about the choice of The Bike School site, as it could put a longstanding Devizes business at risk.

Ian Molesworth, of The Bike School, emphasised the current plans currently have no impact on the school’s operation.

He said: “At present this is a proposal only by developers, and The Bike School will continue to operate as a motorcycle training school, as we have done so for 30 years in Devizes, until such time as our lease is terminated by our landlord.

“I would like to thank all our customers for their support and we will continue to deliver training from this site both now and into the future.”

Aldi said the development would create 40 new jobs and improve the retail choice on offer for shoppers in the town.

Residents are encouraged to give their feedback via the consultation page aldiconsultation.co.uk/devizes.

Matthias Daly, Aldi real estate director, said: “We are proud to be proposing a new Aldi store in Devizes.

"We encourage residents to participate in our virtual consultation to learn more about the scheme and share their views.

“This represents a major investment in Devizes, bringing new jobs and better access to fresh, healthy affordable food.”