South Hams District Council’s consultation on whether an Aldi supermarket is wanted by the people of Ivybridge has now closed, with results showing that over two thirds (69%) of residents support the new supermarket proposals. The consultation, which ended on 19 February, had a robust response from residents with 66% of respondents telling the Council that they felt a new supermarket would improve footfall into the town centre.
The Council listened carefully to previous public feedback where residents clearly said that they didn’t want a drive through or pub included in the proposals. As such, the consultation was based on a smaller scheme which concentrates on key priorities to boost the town’s growth.
There was strong support from survey respondents for a short stay car park with a whopping 87% in favour of changing from the current long stay. Residents also felt that they would increase their visits to the town centre if they were able to get an hour and a half of free parking to allow them to access the town’s shops and businesses more easily. While 57% responded to say they would support out of centre parking for the 6% of people who work in the town.
The results revealed that most shoppers drive to do their main, or top up, shop during the day, suggesting there would be a marked improvement to the economy of the town by those who would take advantage of the free parking opportunities.
Respondents also felt that by improving shopping choice, it would drive down the cost of food shopping and would encourage people to shop locally within the town, rather than outside of it.
The Council feel that these results demonstrate that residents, and those living outside of the town, recognise the benefits of supporting regeneration and economic activity within Ivybridge’s town centre.
The Council’s next step is to consider the business plan and make a decision to proceed or not.
In Kingsbridge’s consultation, which also closed recently, there was a mix of ideas for the future of the Rope Walk and the District Council will now take time to review the results. Both sets of results will be published as soon as the final analysis is complete.
Cllr Hilary Bastone, Deputy Leader for South Hams District Council, said: "We are really pleased with feedback from both of these consultations. There was a really robust response from residents which is exactly what we were hoping for and Ivybridge in particular, were very clear about what they want to see in their town.
“Having such solid support from the Ivybridge community to our revised plans shows that we’re now on the right path and it is very heartening. These proposals will be a substantial financial investment from the District Council and we’re determined to get it right.“
The data is currently being analysed and the full results will be made available on the Council’s consultation website www.engagement.southhams.gov.uk on Friday 20 March.