A NEW Aldi store on the site of a former B&M has been given the green light in Southampton.

Southampton City Council has granted planning permission for the new store to open at the former B&M Home Stores site on Auckland Road in Millbrook.

Now, work is due to go ahead which will see the old building demolished, making room for a new and larger store.

The plans, that were approved at the end of December, were met with support from members of the surrounding area, with residents stating the store would be a “major plus”.

However, concerns had previously been raised about extra traffic in the area and a rise in air pollution.

Speaking to the Echo after the plans were approved, deputy leader of the Tory-run council, Cllr Jeremy Moulton said: “I think it’s tremendous news.

“It will be a very popular store and lots of people are really pleased to see it happening.”

A spokesperson for the retailer said: "Aldi is delighted that the proposals for a new store in Millbrook have recently been granted planning permission by Southampton City Council.

"This decision will enable a significant investment in the area, providing much needed shopping choice for local residents, with high quality products at everyday low prices.

“We are keen to open the bright, spacious new store as quickly as possible, and look forward to creating at least 40 new jobs for local people. Aldi would like to thank the local community for its support.”

Concerns were also raised by Aldi’s competition during the consultation, with an objection being lodged on behalf of Lidl Great Britain Ltd.

The objection claimed that the company was “concerned about the impact” of the store on its own sites in Shirley and Totton.

Despite this though, other residents voiced their excitement about the new plans with one resident saying: “We need more shops like that on our door steps.

“I dont drive so having an aldi in walking distance as well as a Lidl is going to be a big help for me and hopefully will mean my shopping bill will go down as well.”

Another added: “Looking forward to Aldi coming to the area and not having to drive so far and also welcome the prospect of new jobs being created.”

Aldi has been approached for comment but it is not yet known when the new store will open.