BUDGET supermarket chain Aldi is set to open a new store in Chorley, creating around 50 jobs.

The discount food retailer, is preparing a a multi-million pound joint proposal with developer Primrose Holdings for a food store for Buckshaw Village.

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The company said that the plans would create morel jobs during construction and later supply chain opportunities.

The proposals also include development of a community centre and commercial unit occupied by a drive-through coffee shop. The scheme will be located off Ordnance Road, Buckshaw.

Figures earlier this month revealed more than half of all British households visited discounters Aldi or Lidl over Christmas, as sales at the ‘big four’ supermarket chains fell.

The German firm’s cheap alternatives have become increasingly popular shoppers as their sales grew by 22.6 to finish the year with a market share of 4.8 per cent.

A spokesperson for Aldi said: “We are excited about the prospect of working with Primrose Holdings to deliver a n Aldi store as well as supporting the delivery of a community centre which we hope will provide more facilities to local groups and organisations in Buckshaw Village.”

Aldi is holding a public exhibition for residents to meet the project team, find out more about the proposals, and provide feedback on the preliminary plans. It will be held on Wednesday, between 3pm and 7pm at Euxton Parish Church Community Centre, Wigan Road, Euxton.

The store said the community centre and additional unit will be carefully designed to ensure they sit comfortably within the site.

Cllr Alistair Bradley, leader of Chorley Council, said: “Buckshaw Village is a growing community and it’s good to see another business looking to invest in the area and create new jobs.”

“It will also potentially unlock a development for a much-needed community centre in the area.

“I’d urge people to take part in the consultation and we will await the full detail of the proposals when a planning application is submitted.”

The Aldi spokesman added that the store had a ‘unique offering’ and does not act as a one stop shop.

The store will not have a butcher, fishmonger or bakery and it will not sell tobacco.

They said was known for encouraging linked trips between its stores and other local businesses.