A PROPOSAL to build an Aldi supermarket in Dunoon has been described as an exciting development for the town by the joint depute leader of Argyll and Bute Council.
A special meeting between representatives from the leading discount supermarket and local council officials took place this week to showcase Aldi’s ambition for a £9.7 million store on Hamilton Street.
It’s understood that during the meeting, held on Wednesday, advanced plans were presented and work is progressing on a consultation event for the public to engage with early next year.
Dunoon ward councillor and joint depute leader of Argyll and Bute Council, Ross Moreland, was present at the meeting and was impressed by what Aldi had to say.
He explained: “Working with and on behalf of my ward colleagues and with a team of officers from the council, I met with the team from Aldi to discuss their plans for a new store in Dunoon. It was great to see how advanced the plans are and to hear about their genuine ambition for delivering a store in the Dunoon area.
“Although there is still a long way to go in terms of planning and building, the plans at this point are an exciting development for the town. Myself and my colleagues will continue to engage with Aldi as this process unfolds. I would encourage everyone to visit the consultation event in the new year to hear more about their plans.”
Timescales for construction remain uncertain at this early stage, but Aldi says it hopes to submit a formal planning application in the first or second quarter next year, following completion of the consultation process.
A spokesperson for Aldi said: “We’re delighted to bring forward our proposals for a new store in Dunoon, following the strong interest and engagement we’ve received from the community. We also appreciate the constructive dialogue we’ve had with Argyll and Bute Council to date, and look forward to continuing those conversations as we progress our plans.
“There has been significant demand for a store in the area, and our proposals represent a £9.7 million investment that would improve access to affordable, high-quality produce while creating up to 35 new jobs and supporting further employment through construction and the wider supply chain.
“As we expand our presence in Argyll and Bute, we remain committed to open and ongoing engagement. We’ll host an in-person consultation event in the new year to showcase the proposals and gather local feedback ahead of submitting a planning application to Argyll and Bute Council.”
