SUPERMARKET giant Aldi has said it is concerned over the lack of progress on its plans to build a store in Aberystwyth.

German supermarket chain Aldi confirmed in September 2018 its intention to build a store along Park Avenue on the derelict site of the former Kwik Save supermarket and Cambrian Garage, which would create 40 new jobs in the town.

The application was submitted to local planners and was approved by Ceredigion County Council in June 2019.

The planning application was however called in by Welsh Government inspectors over potential flooding concerns, with a public inquiry initially pencilled in for March 2020.

But the Covid-19 pandemic led to a series of delays to the public inquiry, with it eventually taking place early last year.

Following the inquiry, a recommendation by Planning Inspectorate Wales was given to the Welsh Government Minister for Climate Change, Julie James, in March 2021, which has not been made public.

But a Welsh Government spokesperson confirmed to the Cambrian News this week that ‘the Minister has yet to make a decision’ on the application, 10 months after receiving the recommendation.

Aldi says the delay has left them and Aberystwyth in limbo.

Rob Jones, Aldi Property Director said: “We originally secured planning permission for a scheme on this site back in 2011, which included a hotel. Following local feedback and re-consideration of the scheme, we decided not to proceed with the hotel element and to seek permission for just the store, which was welcomed by local residents and politicians. This revised application was granted consent by Ceredigion Council in 2019 before being called in.

“Since then, we have waited two years for the public inquiry, which was finally held in January and February 2021. Twelve months later, we are still waiting on a decision by Welsh Ministers.

“We are concerned that the process is taking so long for an application that has significant local benefit both in terms of jobs, investment and the regeneration of an eyesore site in Aberystwyth.”

He added: “We are calling on all those with an interest in Aberystwyth to make their views known to Welsh Government via their elected representatives and to encourage a decision on this application as soon as possible. Until we have a decision we are unable to proceed with development, or alternative plans for the site, which is delaying investment, jobs and opportunities for Aberystwyth, as well as leaving an important site empty in a key location within the town.”

Ceredigion MS Elin Jones said: “I’m very disappointed at the length of time this decision is taking by Welsh Government. The Minister had confirmed that their indicated target date for decision was the 9 December. “This site is in real need of development and Aldi are a popular supermarket that could offer new job and economic opportunities for Aberystwyth. “I’ll be taking this matter up again with the Minister.”