Supermarket giant Aldi hopes to get the final approval it needs to be able to open a brand new store in Milton Keynes in time for Christmas.
The growing discount brand has already completed much of the construction of the new store in Stantonbury after gaining planning permission almost a year ago.
But before it can open and greet customers it needs Milton Keynes Council to approve its plans for the future of an artwork called the bicycle mural which is on one of the walls at the derelict local centre.
A spokesman for Aldi said today (Thursday) that they believe if their proposal is approved in November there is still time to complete construction, finalise recruitment for 40 people, and get the store ready and open in time for Christmas.
“If the decision is delayed, or the proposals are not approved, then there won’t be time,” the spokesman added.
But there remains concern among culture campaigners that the bicycle mural on the wall of the local centre at Stantonbury risks damage when it is removed from its current site to where Aldi wants to put it.
The mural, made up from 1,200 individually glazed tiles was created by ceramic artist John Watson and shows former pupils from Stantonbury School.
Campaigners believe it will be difficult to cut the mural up without damaging it.
Aldi, which has proposed a method of dismantling the bicycle mural, has identified a site north west of the new store and has plans to re-erect it in an upright position. The company says it will preserve, monitor and maintain the mural near a footpath.
Simon Glover, property director at Aldi, said: “We are excited about the possibility of making this significant investment in Stantonbury, replacing a derelict retail centre with a bright, modern, new store, and creating
up to 40 new jobs for local people.
“We have explored all options for the retention and relocation of the
bicycle mural and are confident that the proposed location will ensure it can continue to be enjoyed by the wider community.”
Local councillors, including Stantonbury Parish Council and Tory leader Cllr Alex Walker have supported the scheme.
Milton Keynes Council has scheduled for the decision to be made at the development control committee on November 5.
