Mystery of Whitchurch Aldi store

Mystery surrounds the future of a planned Aldi supermarket in Whitchurch, which has still not opened for business two years after planning permission was granted.

Residents and councillors today said they were baffled why the discount retailer has yet to begin work on the new store at Meadow View, Waymills, which is expected to create about 20 jobs when it opens.

One resident has branded the site an 'eyesore' and said he felt 'let down' by the firm after many people in the town supported the plans.

No-one from Aldi was available to comment today.

The company won planning permission from Shropshire Council in 2010 following a wrangle which saw both sides lock horns at a public inquiry the previous year, which Aldi won.

It comes at a time when two supermarket giants have unveiled plans for new stores in the town.

Tesco has submitted plans to expand and relocate to Edgeley Park and develop its White Lion Meadow store, while Sainsbury's has won permission to build a new store off London Road.

A Whitchurch resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "The site is an eyesore. Derelict land next to a modern Homebase does not look good."

Town councillor Rob Hewson added: "A lot of people wanted it but I have heard nothing about when work is due to begin."