Lidl Objects To Plans For New Aldi Store In Ryde

Plans for a new Aldi supermarket in Ryde have met opposition from rival chain Lidl, which says the proposal could threaten its own plans for a nearby store.

Aldi has submitted a planning application for a new branch on the former Neutrik site at Westridge Business Park off Cothey Way, following a public consultation earlier this year.

The company says 93 per cent of 853 residents who took part supported the idea.

However, in an email to Isle of Wight Council, Lidl raised concerns that approving the development could jeopardise its planned store at the Pennyfeathers housing site nearby.

Lidl said it was in “advanced discussions” with landowners at Pennyfeathers and argued that Aldi’s proposed site “almost opposite” could undermine investment and confidence in the wider development.

The retailer added that the commercial element of the Pennyfeathers project is key to funding highways infrastructure and creating a community hub for the area.

The letter stated:

“It is probable that permitting a new standalone store on the application site would have an impact on planned investment and investor confidence for Pennyfeathers, as the viability of Lidl’s planned store would be put in doubt if permission is granted for a competing store almost opposite.”

Aldi’s Planning Statement, prepared by Zesta Planning, argues that the store would “facilitate economic growth” within the Ryde Key Regeneration Area, creating 40 new jobs and contributing positively to the local economy.

It adds that the proposed development is acceptable in terms of design, transport, highways safety, environmental impact, and ecology.

There is already a Tesco Extra store located nearby.

The Isle of Wight Council’s public consultation on the proposal (application reference 25/01012/FUL) remains open until Thursday, December 5.