Aldi's revised plans for new Melton store look set for approval

Aldi wants to build the new store, which it says would create 40 new jobs, on the site of the former ambulance station on Leicester Road.

As previously reported in the Melton Times the retailer’s planning application was deferred last month to give it time to address noise concerns.

Melton Council’s planning committee is due to decide its amended application on Thursday (March 31).

Aldi’s revised plans include proposals for a fully enclosed loading bay, to the rear of the site, with sound insulation and an acoustic fence as well as an acoustic enclosure around the refrigeration plant.

The council has received more than 120 letters of support for the proposed new Aldi store, compared to seven letters of objection, with particular support for having a food store in the south of the town where there are currently no similar convenience stores. Supporters also believe having the store in the south could potentially reduce traffic and congestion through the town.

Council officers have recommended for councillors to approve the Aldi plans on Thursday, subject to conditions.

Among the suggested conditions is one relating to the permitted hours when construction and demolition work and deliveries to the site should be permitted.

It’s suggested that these works and deliveries should only be permitted, unless prior approval is received from the council’s environmental health department, between 7am and 7pm, Monday to Friday, 8am to 1pm on Saturdays and no works to be undertaken on Sundays or bank holidays.

But this is only a recommendation for the planning committee to consider. Members may decide to amend suggested conditions and add extra ones if they deem necessary.

A report to the planning committee says: “The proposed amendments to the delivery yard and refrigeration plant and the acoustic mitigation proposed will lessen any potential noise impact and this reduces the impact upon residential amenities of properties to the south and west of the proposed development to an acceptable level.

“It’s therefore considered the proposal would not have an adverse impact to the adjoining properties by virtue of noise at a level which would impact upon public health.”