HUNDREDS of residents have taken to social media to support discount supermarket Aldi’s proposals for a Barry store.

Disgruntled residents took to the Barry & District News Facebook site after planning officers recommended it should be refused recently, and while others crowded the civic office chamber gallery last week, to witness councillors defer a final decision until a site visit in June.

The proposal, for Ty Verlon industrial estate store, in Cardiff Road, Barry, would represent a multi-million-pound investment into the town, creating approximately 40 jobs.

Venting her frustration ahead of the meeting, mum-of-two Tracey Adams, from Cadoxton, said: “If it were housing they'd pass it straight away. We need it for jobs.”

Posting on social media, Paula Harvey said: “So they completely ignore the people of Barry's wishes and build a big incinerator but when the people vote for and ask for a particular store they refuse?”

Facebook user Michelle Kerr added: “Deny people cheaper shopping options but go ahead and approve a monstrosity that will decrease our air quality and is a public health hazard.”

And Pat Small said: “Give the people of Barry a store that helps them save the pennies, they deserve something for them for a change. Aldi is a great store.”

Aldi said the store would increase choice and regenerate a key site on Barry’s gateway.

But planning officers recommended refusal - saying the application would result in the loss of an employment site within Barry.

Following last week's planning meeting, an Aldi spokesman said the company was “naturally disappointed and frustrated that a decision on our application will now not be made until June, particularly after a large number of residents took the time to attend the meeting.”