Aldi store plan approved after appeal

Plans to build an Aldi store have been approved after an appeal.

The planning application for site in Ivybridge, Devon, was refused in November by members of South Hams District Council due to concerns over its impact on neighbouring properties.

In the appeal decision, the Planning Inspectorate said, in the interests of public health and the living conditions of residents, Aldi Stores Limited would be required to address any unexpected contamination and to restrict delivery times, opening hours, noise and lighting.

South Hams District said it did not have a further comment. Aldi has been approached for a comment.

Plans to build an Aldi in Ivybridge were rejected twice in separate proposals, the first being refused in 2022.

The Planning Inspectorate's report said: "The appeal is allowed and planning permission is granted for a new retail food store together with associated works including the provision of parking and servicing area, access works and landscaping at Land at Rutt Lane, Ivybridge... subject to the conditions."

It said the main issue was the effect of the proposed development on the living conditions of the occupiers of neighbouring properties in Elm Park.

It added the proposed building would be single-storey, with a monopitch roof to the main part of the building and a flat roof section to the rear.

A construction management plan was required in the conditions of the appeal approval to "safeguard the living conditions of local residents and to prevent adverse impacts on the local road network during the construction phase," the report said.

It added the development should not begin later than three years from approval date.

Follow BBC Devon on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to spotlight@bbc.co.uk.