I am in full agreement with local residents whom are opposing the recent application by Aldi to build a new store on the Drakehouse Lane. I have written to their Cheif Executive to express my views and will continue to actively engage myself within this matter.

Below is an copy of my letter:

Dear Mr Foley

I am writing to you with regard to the planning application for the proposed store on Drakehouse Lane, Sheffield near to the Crystal Peaks shopping centre both of which are in my Constituency.

I would like to inform you that I will be raising my objection to the application as I believe that the location is unsuitable.

I feel that additional retail development should be as part of the western development of Crystal Peaks which I believe is the natural extension of the shopping centre.

The Damon’s restaurant site where the store is proposed is in a housing area and although it is not specifically allocated for housing, a large food store here would inevitably have a detrimental impact on the existing homes

I also feel the proposal for car-parking to be shared between Damon’s and ALDI would simply be insufficient for the demand and the additional traffic generated would simply add to the local congestion already being experienced.

I have absolutely no problem with Aldi building a store in my constituency as I know that many of my constituents would use the facility however I feel and there is strong feeling amongst local residents that the store would better suited on another site.

I look forward to your response.

Yours sincerely

Clive Betts MP

Sheffield Attercliffe constituency