PROPOSED Aldi stores in high streets and town centres have been welcomed by Basildon and Southend councillors, as long as certain conditions are met.

The supermarket chain is targeting stores in Basildon, Brentwood and Southend, with desired locations in town centres.

Southend High Street has been cited as a potential spot for an Aldi store in the future, but the site would only be used if an appealing proposal was put forward.

Tony Cox, Southend Council leader, said: “It is certainly an interesting proposal and not one I have accounted for before.

“We are always open and welcoming to businesses who want to come to the city and it’ll be interesting to see what they want to do and where they want to go.

“Discussions would have to take place around their needs and whether we as a council can accommodate those needs.

“For example driving cars in The Victoria, how would they facilitate that if possible.”

Aldi is searching for sites that can accommodate a 20,000 square foot store with around 100 parking spaces.

Ideally the location will be ‘near a main road with good visibility and access.

Ian Gilbert, Labour councillor for Victoria ward, said: “I think we’d welcome any new retail development to the city and I think any investment is a positive sign.

“People are going to be thinking about what happens to that space when Wilko will sadly have to close, whether that’s appropriate for Aldi I’m not sure but any significant store coming to the centre of town would be a positive.”

Laurie Burton, Labour councillor for Blenheim Park ward added: ““Whoever is in administration should be trying their best to limit the number of empty premises in and re-green the high street.”

"Whatever side you're on i think the whole city wants to see Victoria shopping centre and the high street thriving at full capacity"

The idea of another Aldi store in Basildon was also welcomed.

Allan Davies, Labour councillor for Fryerns ward, said: “I think it would be good for the economy and residents, it would bring jobs into the area which is always good considering the current economic circumstances. I think it will be a much-needed boost to the community.

“I know they got several stores but I’m happy for them to be wherever. I’m all about jobs for the locals and bringing prosperity so the town centre is an area where that would be welcomed.”