New Aldi Store Set To Open In Ryde After Planning Approval

A new Aldi supermarket looks set to open in Ryde after County Hall planners granted conditional permission for the development.

Plans for the discount store at Cothey Way – alongside 12 electric vehicle charging points, parking, landscaping and supporting infrastructure – attracted significant public backing, with nearly 300 letters of support submitted.

The proposed site is a vacant brownfield plot, formerly home to Neutrik UK, and is expected to create around 40 retail jobs.

Despite the support, the plans were met with objections from both Nettlestone and Seaview Parish Council and Ryde Town Council.

Concerns raised included the potential impact on traffic, noise and light pollution, as well as environmental and residential amenity issues.

In total, 16 third-party objections were lodged.

However, a council officer’s report concluded the development would not cause significant harm.

It said the scheme would not negatively impact the town centre’s vitality, highway safety, nearby amenities or the overall character of the area.

While the project would result in the loss of employment land, officers determined it would not damage the local economy.

The report also stated that no protected trees or species would be affected, and that biodiversity net gain could be achieved through enhanced landscaping.

Planning consent has been granted subject to 18 conditions.

These cover areas including environmental protection, highway and pedestrian safety, drainage, biodiversity improvements, and ensuring the development is completed to an acceptable standard.

Supporters of the scheme argued it would boost competition, improve retail choice, create jobs and make productive use of a disused site, without placing undue strain on local roads.

In contrast, a previous statement from Nettlestone and Seaview Parish Council warned the development could place additional pressure on nearby communities.

It said unresolved highway risks, environmental concerns and the lack of a wider infrastructure strategy meant the proposal was “neither safe nor suitable” for the location, also highlighting fears over increased noise, light pollution and general disturbance to residents.