RESIDENTS are being urged to attend a public consultation into controversial plans for a new supermarket in Cottingham.
Aldi has submitted proposals to build a multi-million-pound store in Newgate Street in the village, which could be open for trading next year.
However, at a recent residents' meeting it was claimed the development would be yet another body blow to the retail centre.
Tomorrow a public consultation meeting is to be held from 3.30pm to 7.30pm at the Darby and Joan Hall in Finkle Street.
Ward councillor Lena Slater said: "The outcome at the residents' meeting was that residents are not against any organisation wishing to develop and maintain the health and vitality of the village high street area.
"They do not want what is left of the uniqueness of Cottingham destroyed even further.
"If this supermarket is built it is an irrevocable step, with all the unforeseen or cared about bad results for a village desperate to maintain the quality of life still enjoyed.
"It is up to the residents of Cottingham to say enough is enough and attend the public consultation meeting.
"Or, if you are for the supermarket, I would also urge you to come along and make your views heard."
Last year, more than 1,500 people signed petitions objecting to plans for a supermarket development in the village's Station Road.
East Riding Council gave the go-ahead in November for the £20m supermarket.
Cllr Slater said: "Aldi is considered to be yet another body blow to the retail centre and the activity of traffic in the residential areas and main thoroughfares throughout the whole of the village.
"Residents support a village centre that gives choice for shoppers provided by large and independent retailers located together.
"Aldi could find an alternative site in the village centre as some of the larger units have recently become free."
The proposal for the supermarket is in Cottingham House, which has been standing empty for 15 to 20 years.
The site, which is surrounded by trees, had been earmarked for residential properties.
An Aldi spokesman said the store would be 15,500sq ft, about a third of the size of Waitrose in Willerby.
The development would create more than 30 jobs.
The spokesman said: "We can confirm that we have submitted proposals to build a new multi-million-pound Aldi store in Newgate Street, Cottingham.
"The location at Newgate Street was chosen to provide residents with immediate access to a local discounter, thereby providing genuine choice and value for shoppers.
"Our responsibility as the town's only discounter would also be taken very seriously and we intend to play an active role in supporting the local community.
"As part of this role we will be holding a public consultation in the near future to inform local residents of our proposal and encourage their views on Aldi's plans."
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