Second Aldridge supermarket could close some local businesses
Second Aldridge supermarket could close some local businesses
The YamYam 28 Jan 10
Proposals to turn a former bingo hall in Aldridge into a new supermarket have led to fears that local shopkeepers could be forced to move out. Property developers Dorchester Land snapped up the Anchor Road site after Gala Bingo closed in August and new owner John Phillips has said that the building is likely to be converted for retail use.
Chain store giants Aldi, the Co-op, Lidl and Sainsburys have all shown interest in the site which is close to the existing Morrisons supermarket. Joe O’Brien, Aldridge shopping centre manager, said: “I have spoken to a lot of traders and I think the general feeling is that a supermarket would be a welcome addition to Aldridge.
“Morrisons has got the monopoly at the moment so at least it would create some competition which would only be good for the area. The only problem I can see them having is creating the space for the delivery lorries to access the site.
“They would have to clear some of the units either side I would imagine and we know some of the shopkeepers along there have been approached about selling up.”
Owner of Aldridge Chippy, George Panayi, confirmed that he had been approached by Lidl but, after spending thousands of pounds on improvements to his business, did not want to move out to make room for a delivery bay.
In November, Walsall Council rejected plans submitted by Morrisons, also sited on Anchor Road, to demolish Aldridge Ambulance Station and use the land to extend its own delivery bay. Councillors refused permission because the development would adversely affect the amenities of residents and create traffic congestion on the Aldridge Bypass.
Express & Star 14 Dec 09 Aldridge ex-bingo hall site snapped up
Corum Property Investments 25 Nov Corum acquires Aldridge site
Express & Star 3 Aug Sadness at Aldridge Gala Bingo closure
Express & Star 30 Jun Number up for bingo hall
iWM: Dorchester Land Details
Express & Star 6 Nov 09 Plan for extension to Aldridge supermarket blocked
Beacon Radio 12 Oct Aldridge Ambulance station in possible move
BBC News 12 Oct Ambulance sation sites 'wanted'
Aldridge-Brownhills Lib Dems 12 Oct Can you help identify new site for Ambulance Station?
B'ham Mail 2 Sep Aldridge ambulance pledge over Morrisons' plans