Aldi appeals decision to refuse store in Mayo town

Aldi has lodged an appeal with An Bord Pleanála against Mayo County Council's decision to refuse planning permission for a new supermarket in Swinford.

The German supermarket chain had sought planning permission for a single-storey discount foodstore comprising a gross floor area of 1908 square metres and all associated site works at a site on the Kiltimagh/Castlebar Roads. The council rejected the project due to concerns about the impact it would have on the local retail sector and traffic within the town.

In issuing its refusal, the local authority said the proposed development, if permitted, would have an adverse impact on the “vitality, viability and attractiveness” of Swinford’s traditional town centre, would result in an over-concentration of retail development in this area of the town and depreciate the value of property in the vicinity. The council also had concerns about heavy goods vehicles accessing the site and pedestrian connectivity within the town arising from this potential development.

Several residents also lodged submissions expressing concerns about the new supermarket, which would have been located on a site close to the local Catholic church.

Aldi has now appealed the council's decision to An Bord Pleanála. No decision date is provided but it would normally be expected within 18 weeks.