ONE of the country’s most popular supermarket chains has confirmed why it wanted to open a new store in Warrington.

Aldi has also given an indication of when residents will be able to visit the new shop when it opens its doors for the first time.

The supermarket giant was granted permission for its new site in Gemini last week by Warrington Borough Council’s planning department.

Seven out of nine committee members voted in favour of the application, which is now due to be built on the former Arnold Clark garage on Europa Boulevard.

The car dealership moved its operations across the road following the closure of Toys ‘R’ Us.

Aldi currently has four stores across Warrington – in Stockton Heath, the town centre, Birchwood and Orford.

Speaking about why it wanted to open another store in the town, a spokesman said: “Aldi is thrilled with the popularity of its stores in the local area.

Warrington Guardian: The supermarket will be built on the former Arnold Clark garage (Image: Google Maps)The supermarket will be built on the former Arnold Clark garage (Image: Google Maps) (Image: Google Maps)

“However, with its closest store to the proposal site on Winwick Road accommodating more and more customers, Aldi shoppers are experiencing longer waiting times and a busy store.

“The approval of its application for Gemini Retail Park will allow Aldi to transform the shopping experience for the local community, provide greater choice and regenerate a vacant brownfield site.”

The spokesman added that Aldi’s proposals received a huge amount of support from residents, with 120 letters of support being received during the public consultation in January.

Bryn Richards, property director for Aldi, added: “We are delighted to have received consent from Warrington Borough Council for our scheme on Gemini Retail Park.

“We are also very grateful to the local residents who participated in the consultation.”

“The plans will see the vacant site redeveloped with a new, high-quality Aldi food store, customer parking, electric vehicle charging points and the creation of 40 new permanent jobs.

“We are now looking forward to starting our initial work on the site with a view to open the store in September 2023.”