SHOPPERS in Ledbury appear to be backing proposals to bring Aldi to the town.

The discount retailer – which hopes to redevelop a plot of vacant scrubland in New Mills Industrial Estate into a “vibrant new food store” – held a public consultation on its proposals on Friday (October 23).

About 250 residents attended the event at Burgage Hall to view the preliminary plans, with the supermarket chain saying 90 per cent were in favour of a new shop.

And the reaction on social media seems to back up these claims.

Graham George wrote online: “Just build the place – it is wanted and needed. There are a lot of things in Aldi that would go straight in my basket.”

Facebook user Kerry Gummery added “not everybody can afford to shop at Sainsbury’s but Aldi is affordable for everyone - fingers crossed it will be allowed” while Sarah-Jayne Evans said “I’m all for it”.

But Keith Wildig was less positive, posting: “Why is it that the Aldi proposal appears to be gaining approval, when the larger, much-needed Sainsbury's application got the thumbs down? Ledbury is expanding and we need a petrol station as well as the food store.”

The development – if granted planning permission – will also involve expansion of the adjacent Galebreaker factory, a move that will “preserve existing jobs, create news ones and secure the future of this business”, according to Aldi.

This employment boost for the town is one of several reasons the supermarket claims has helped ensure public backing for the project.

Aldi has stated that one thousand comment cards completed by residents have been returned, with 90 per cent supporting the plans due to more competition for consumers and job creation.

Rob Jones, regional property director for Aldi, said: “We are delighted with how many residents attended the exhibition and are encouraged by the overwhelming support received so far.

“We are now considering the feedback and hope to finalise the proposals and submit the planning application to Herefordshire County Council in the coming weeks.

“I would like to thank all residents who took the time to attend the exhibition and provide us with their feedback.

"Those who weren’t able to go along but would like to find out more about the plans can still get involved.”

To voice your opinion call 0800 2987040 or visit aldiconsultation.co.uk/ledbury