A MULTI-million pound investment into Lye has been secured by supermarket giant Aldi after Dudley Council’s planning committee approved its proposals for a new store.

The discount food chain plans to redevelop the former Clarkson Place unit in Thorns Road, transforming the derelict site into productive use.

As well as bringing additional shopping choice to residents, the new store will also create 40 permanent job opportunities and employment through construction and supply chains.

The new store in Lye, one of 7,000 across Europe, North America and Australia, will also offer 120 free customer car parking spaces, including 8 disabled spaces.

Lye Councillor Mohammed Hanif, deputy Mayor of Dudley, said: “I am delighted the plans have been approved. The new store will really enhance the area which is very much needed.

“Speaking for the local community, there has always been a need for a supermarket and we have waited a long time for this.

“As well as taking the stress off parking in Merry Hill, it will also regenerate a block which has been left derelict for quite a while.

"Having worked in Lye for many years, I am also excited by the level of employment the store will bring as it will help a number of local people get back into work.”

Before the proposals were agreed by Dudley Council, Aldi carried out a public consultation and distributed 35 letters to nearby commercial and residential premises.

Two objections were received, noting the heavy traffic that the store will cause on an already busy road, as well as the health and safety concerns of pedestrians due to the anticipated increase of footfall near large businesses. The store’s application received 101 letters of support.

An Aldi spokesperson said: “We’re delighted that our plans have been approved and would like to thank the local community for their continued support.

“Many residents told us that they currently travel to our existing stores in Stourbridge and Brierley Hill, so we are excited to bring our offering closer to home for these customers, and in turn improve footfall for other traders in Lye.”

Lye residents who would like more information regarding the new store, as well as its plans, can call the Freephone project information line on 0800 298 7040.