New Aldi approved in Diss despite Tesco opposition

Tesco had opposed the plans for the new Aldi, which is illustrated in this artist's impression

Plans for a new supermarket in a Norfolk town have been approved, despite objections from a rival chain.

Aldi already has a store in Diss but applied to redevelop the former Norfolk Feather Company site as the lease on its current building expires next year.

Tesco, which has a branch nearby, argued that the proposed relocation breached planning rules.

South Norfolk Council's planning committee approved the plan unanimously.

Aldi opened in the town in a former Co-Op in Mere Street in 2014, but said it was unable to extend the lease on the building.

It applied to demolish the factory of the nearby Norfolk Feather Company, which closed two years ago, and build a larger store there.

The company's planning consultant, Rob Scadding, told councillors the proposal had "widespread local support".

"The only exception has come from representatives of Tesco, who seek to frustrate investment by Aldi, denying local residents access to a better retail offer," he added.

Tesco said that the relocation did not fall in line with a local development plan and could have a "significantly adverse" impact on trade in the town centre.

A report for councillors said the new supermarket would "generate new employment".

Aldi said that 30 existing jobs would be retained and another 20 would be created at its new branch.