A BUDGET supermarket will be built in Benfleet after plans were rubber-stamped by councillors.

An Aldi store is set for the run-down 1.32-acre site of the old Focus DIY store, in Rushbottom Lane, at the Tarpots junction, after the proposals were unanimously agreed by Castle Point Council’s planning committee.

Councillors hope the new store will boost trade in the Tarpots area and the free car park attached to the store will attract even more shoppers to the area.

Tom Skipp, conservative councillor for Appleton Ward, said: “I am very pleased that the members of the council agreed this was the appropriate development for this site.

“It is in a key location near the town centre area.

“I spoke to some of the businesses and there was a general consensus it would complement their businesses.

“I hope the Aldi will provide more attraction to the town centre area and attract more customers.”

Aldi plans to start work on the new development, which will create approximately 30 new jobs, within the next three years.

The development will also include a 104-space car park, which will include 90-minute free parking for those visiting the town – including non-Aldi customers.

A plan to reintroduce a righthand turn off the A13 into the main junction in Rushbottom Lane has also been approved by Essex County Council.

This will improve access into the car park and it is hoped it will also help bring more people into the town centre.

Bill Dick, conservative councillor for St Peter’s said: “I am very pleased the Aldi has been approved.

“With the right-hand turn, it will benefit the Tarpots area and bring in a lot more footfall. It will therefore benefit other traders.”

Opening hours would be restricted to between 8am and 10pm, Monday to Saturday, and from 10am to 4pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays.