PLANS to build a major new supermarket on the edge of Totton have won backing - despite fears the scheme could create extra traffic problems.

Totton and Eling Town Council is recommending the district council to approve Aldi's application to open a 1,890sqm store beside AFC Totton in Salisbury Road, Calmore.

But the council's submission raises concerns about the prospect of a supermarket next door to a football ground.

Citing the "inevitable" increase in traffic it calls for the speed limit at the eastern end of Salisbury Road to be reduced from 40mph to 30mph.

Daily Echo: Totton and Eling Town Council is recommending New Forest District Council to support the Aldi application.Totton and Eling Town Council is recommending New Forest District Council to support the Aldi application. (Image: Newsquest)However, the council describes the scheme as positive, saying the proposed new store will provide shoppers with more choice as well as creating jobs.

The application has also sparked several letters from people living in the area.

Andy Hadley, of Testwood Avenue, Totton, says: "I support the development of the site but with major concerns over traffic control as well as pedestrian access and safety.

"The McDonald's site in Totton frequently blocks traffic in/out of Totton.

"Given the proposed site is next to a busy industrial estate getting shoppers in/out safely is a big issue, as is the already awful congestion and associated pollution.

"If access cannot be made safe, the proposed development should not go ahead."

Daily Echo: If the scheme is approved the new Aldi store will be built beside the home of AFC Totton.If the scheme is approved the new Aldi store will be built beside the home of AFC Totton. (Image: Newsquest)

But Alison Hughes, of Ordnance Way, Marchwood, adds: "Very much needed in the community and a perfect spot to build a supermarket."

Aldi's application says: "The provision of a discount food outlet and an employment unit will provide a valuable service to the local community as well as job opportunities.

"It will bring substantial investment into the area and enhance an undeveloped site through the provision of new buildings and associated infrastructure."

A transport statement that accompanies the application says the plans "are not expected to lead to any localised material off-site highway issues".

Daily Echo: Aldi has submitted an application to build a new store on the edge of Totton.Aldi has submitted an application to build a new store on the edge of Totton. (Image: Aldi)

Plans to build a supermarket on the site, known as Little Testwood Farm, were first unveiled in August last year.

Speaking at the time Aldi property director Lee McCandless said: “Our proposals represent an opportunity to build a new discount food store, improving local shopping choice for residents in Totton.

“The store would make use of a currently under-utilised site which has been earmarked for development."

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.

Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.

You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.

Don't just take my word for it - subscribe today.

Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by searching Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents on Facebook Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated group by searching Hampshire Court and Crime News on Facebook.