Aldi Initiates Second Bid for Surrey Store Development

The supermarket chain Aldi has commenced a renewed effort to establish an outlet in a Surrey town, following the rejection of its initial application by planning authorities. Aldi has launched a public consultation regarding its updated plans for the site located on Portsmouth Road, Thames Ditton, which previously housed the Guy Salmon Jaguar Landrover showroom. Elmbridge Borough Council dismissed the prior application in 2022, a decision that was subsequently upheld upon appeal. Objectors had likened the store’s proposed design to “an alien spaceship”. The application was initially rejected due to its potential impact on nearby homes, a listed pub, and a conservation area. Aldi states it is submitting “a revised planning application” which it has developed “following feedback from local people”. In a statement, the company declared: “The proposed store will be significantly lower in height than the previous scheme, with a more traditional facade and more trees and hedging to improve screening and reduce the impact on neighbours.” These new plans are scheduled for public display at Dittons Library from 15:00 to 19:00 GMT on 9 December. The company is soliciting public feedback via its website.