A PROPOSAL to build an Aldi store in Barry has once again been recommended for refusal by Vale council officers.

The application, to be discussed at the authority’s planning meeting today (Thursday, June 15), proposes a new store at the Ty Verlon industrial estate, in Cardiff Road, Barry.

The scheme represents a multi-million pound investment into the town - aimed at creating around 40 local jobs.

Aldi have said the store would increase choice for shoppers and regenerate a key site on the gateway into Barry.

Planning officers say the application would result in the loss of an employment site within Barry.

Councillors voted to defer the application for a site visit on April 27.

The report states: “The proposed development would result in the loss of a needed and occupied existing employment site, contrary to the policy presumption in favour of the retention of such uses on defined employment sites and would, therefore, adversely impact upon the supply and range employment land/accommodation within the Vale of Glamorgan.”

The report also concluded that the viability and vitality of “existing retail centres” would be adversely affected.

Cadoxton councillor Anne Moore and another resident have submitted letters of support for the supermarket in addition to the 91 already previously received.

Four letters of objection have been received.

An Aldi spokesman said:: “We are disappointed that the plans have been recommended for refusal, despite extensive evidence of the benefits that this scheme could bring to the area.

“When deciding this application, I hope that members will consider the significant opportunity for new investment and employment on a brownfield site that is in a key gateway location into Barry.”

He added: “The ongoing support from local residents and councillors is greatly appreciated. We have received an overwhelming response from the local area particularly in relation to the employment opportunities jointly created by Aldi, and the expansion of COS Group in Barry.”