More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
Aldi has revealed plans to open its second supermarket in Ashford.
The expanding German chain, which has long been interested in launching another shop in the town, has its sights set on a section of land on the Waterbrook Park estate.
The site - off the A2070 Bad Munstereifel Road - is next to the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce base, not far from the Orbital Park 'McDonald's roundabout' and the post-Brexit lorry park in Sevington.
Outline permission for a supermarket is already secured, but the tenant had remained under wraps until now.
Aldi, which opened its first store in Ashford in August 2018, says up to 50 jobs will be created as a result of proposed store - and there will be 130 parking spaces available.
A bid for full planning permission is yet to be submitted, but a consultation on the proposals has been launched this week.
On Thursday, KentOnline revealed how the 'McDonald's roundabout' is set to be replaced with traffic lights, in a project which could cause 18 months of delays for drivers.
Aldi's plans are one of a number earmarked for Waterbrook Park, with Amazon linked to opening a huge distribution centre, and KFC primed to open a restaurant.
In 2019, Aldi purchased land in Canterbury Road, Kennington, but a planning application is yet to be submitted.
It is not known whether the chain will continue to work on its plans for the 1.85-acre site, which was previously earmarked for a Miller & Carter Steakhouse.
The budget retailer is looking to significantly expand its presence in the county in the coming years, with a further 16 extra locations being considered.
A vision to open a store near Tenterden was dropped earlier this year after plans for the St Michaels recreation ground sparked outrage.
Over in Canterbury, work is under way to reduce the size of Sturry Road's B&Q to allow it to cater for a new Aldi next door, which is planned to open later this year.
To have your say on the plans for the Ashford store, click here.
