Developers are asking residents to tell them what they think about plans for a 20,000 sq ft supermarket and drive thru on their doorstep.
The site is next to the new 190 home Belmont Gate development in Aiskew, near Bedale. The plans include 157 car parking spaces along with a drive thru coffee chain.
The scheme has sparked both concern and support in the community. On social media one resident complained that the store would bring traffic back through the area which has largely been diverted onto the new Bedale bypass.
“So they put a bypass in to stop people driving through Aiskew as much. Then they do this.”
But there was also support with another resident adding: “Will it be Tesco, Aldi or Lidl, this will be a boost for the area bringing in competition for the existing supermarkets.”
The company, Morbaine, say the site will bring up to 35 full time and 30 part-time jobs.
They add: “The proposed development would promote more sustainable shopping patterns locally and help reduce unnecessary car journeys for those seeking greater choice and value for money.
“We are keen to make the store as accessible as possible including encouraging people who live nearby to walk to the store as well as providing improved/upgraded bus stops close to the store entrance. We think this site presents the best opportunity for a new food store given it is available, deliverable and easily accessible to both existing and future residents of Bedale, Aiskew and Leeming Bar.
“Bedale is an attractive and thriving market town which provides a range of facilities for the people of the town and surrounding area. The Market Place and historic centre has a wide variety of unique shops and facilities which appeal to the many tourists that visit the town throughout the year. This community and tourism role is also supported by small artisan food shops selling local cheese, meats, ice cream, which adds to the centre’s unique appeal.”
Morbaine director Keith Nutter said: “We are very pleased to introduce our proposals for a new discount food store on Bedale Road, which will improve shopping choice and increase convenience for local people. At the minute, many people are travelling as far as Northallerton, Catterick, Ripon or Thirsk to meet their shopping needs. Our proposal will provide a new facility on the doorstep for those seeking greater choice and value for money.
“We want to ensure that we bring forward this development in a way that involves the local community. We are looking forward to receiving thoughts and comments from local people as part of our consultation.”
See https://www.bedale-morbaine.co.uk/ for more information.
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