A couple of readers contacted Newton News over pedestrian access around the new build at Newton Aycliffe which is narrow and congested at times.
An Aldi spokesperson commented: “Aldi does not take occupation of the site in Newton Aycliffe until September 2012, with the fit-out of the building set to commence at this time.
They passed on the concerns raised by residents to the landlord’s Manager who replied with the folowing:
Further to your query I can confirm the proposed Aldi site is fully compliant with all statutory requirements and has in fact achieved high scores from independent inspectors.
As regards pedestrian access there is of course no public access to the site and it is fully fenced and secured exterior roads are the responsibility of Durham County Council with the exception of 43 to 2 Dalton Way where we are carrying out repaving works as part of the centre redevelopment.
We are working within defined barriers outside of which we provide a space of 2.2 metres for pedestrian access which is more than enough for 2 people side by side or a mobility scooter/wheelchair to pass.
Full access to all shops in this section has been maintained at all times and all of the shopkeepers are happy to see the works proceed and I have received no complaints regarding access in this area.
The works on Greenwell Road itself are being undertaken by the highways department and as such are their responsibility.
Bryan Haldane
Town Centre Manager
