PLANS to build a new Aldi store next to a controversial housing development in Wrexham have formally been submitted.

The discount food retailer announced its intention to create a supermarket on around three acres of land at the corner of Gresford Road and the Straight Mile in Llay last month.

It will sit side by side with 362 homes which are currently being built as part of the Home Farm development.

Permission was granted for the scheme on appeal by former First Minister Carwyn Jones, despite widespread objections from the community.

Aldi said its proposals would create up to 40 new jobs and provide an modern food store in a convenient location for the village.

In documents put forward to Wrexham Council, the company said: “The proposal is for a new ALDI foodstore and associated car park.

“There is currently no provision of an ALDI foodstore within Llay and would be a welcomed addition to the town.

“The existing site is currently unused and would benefit from development.

“The development is fully integrated into the area through its connections by foot, cycle, private car and public transport routes which pass adjacent to the site, all of which will remain unaffected.”

The proposals include a 120 capacity car park and a main entrance located on Gresford Road.

During a recently held consultation, some residents raised concerns about the potential impact on the crossroads situated by the Crown pub.

Frustration was also voiced about the fact the planned store measures around 1,300 square metres – more than four times the size of the retail development approved as part of the original housing application.

In response, Aldi said: “During this process several comments were raised on access into the site and the potential for a vehicular access from Straight Mile.

“Whilst an all movements junction would not be feasible in this location, there is the scope to introduce a left in only from Straight Mile which will be incorporated into the scheme.

“An ALDI store is a modest scale supermarket often fulfilling a neighbourhood shopping role as well as attracting customers from the surrounding area.”

The planning application will be considered by Wrexham Council at a future date.