Aldi: ‘No prospect’ of Tesco closing because of our new store

THERE is “no prospect” of a proposed new Aldi store resulting in the closure of Tesco in Keynsham town centre, the discount supermarket chain has insisted.

In its latest report on behalf of Aldi, commercial property agent Avison Young says Tesco is trading well above benchmark levels and would continue to do so after a new Aldi store opened.

Aldi wants to build a store on a site between the A4 Bath Road and World’s End Lane.

Its planning application will be decided by Bath & North East Somerset Council.

The Avison Young report is in response to one commissioned by the council from Nexus Planning, which warned of the effect a new Aldi store might have on Tesco and other town centre businesses.

Avison Young said: “We disagree with the consultant’s suggestion that the trading impact of Aldi on Tesco, Keynsham, would result in a consequent ‘material adverse impact’ on the usage levels of the town centre by virtue of a loss of linked trips.

“The reality is that future Aldi shoppers will predominantly be Keynsham residents and the town centre will inevitably remain the most convenient and accessible location to access goods and services not available at the foodstore.

“The centre is well connected to the planning application site via the local highway network and public transport, and benefits from ample public car parking.”

The Aldi proposal has received many supportive comments from the public, but concerns have been raised about the impact on the A4 Bath Road.

Under the plans, although cars would be able to enter the car park from the A4, the only exit would be to the rear onto World’s End Lane opposite the recycling centre.

World’s End Lane is meant to be a right turn only onto Pixash Lane, meaning traffic should follow Ashmead Road to the Broadmead Roundabout by Waitrose, but the no-left-turn sign is often ignored by drivers seeking more direct access onto the Bath Road.

Since Aldi submitted its original planning application in May 2024, B&NES Council’s expected decision date has been repeatedly pushed back, and a new one has yet to be announced.