Objections to development of new Aldi store in Limerick criticised by businessman

A MOYROSS businessman has joined a community representative in backing plans by Aldi to open in the community.

Ray O’Halloran, Speedline Engineering and Tracey McEligott, a development worker at Moyross Residents Forum, say there is huge support from locals for the budget chain to open in their area.

The plans, which Aldi says will create 30 new permanent jobs, are currently being scrutinised by An Bord Pleanala following an objection from Iceland which operates at the nearby Watch House Cross, and two other parties.

Mr O’Halloran – who owns the land in which Aldi wishes to develop – has pointed out that not one resident of Moyross objected to the German retailer's masterplan when it sought planning permission from council.

Ms McElligott added: “Anywhere we can see that Iceland and Aldi has gone in, it has enhanced the area for everybody in the community - and all retailers.”

A key argument from those objecting to the proposed development is the declining population of the northside estate in recent years.

Warning that Limerick store faces 'closure' if Aldi plan proceeds

But Mr O’Halloran has pointed to the development of hundreds of new houses, the Northern Distributor Road and the new privately-owned, public hospital due to be built on lands between Moyross and Coonagh, as evidence the area’s headcount is once again growing.

“Where were they when they made this objection. All they had to do was look to the left, and they'd see the homes currently being built. Once the road goes in [Coonagh to Knockalisheen] then God knows it's going to open up the whole northside of the city,” he said.

Mr O’Halloran has planning permission in place for six light industrial units on the same patch of land.

He said this industrial development “doesn’t depend” on Aldi’s presence, but this would “definitely enhance it.”