Plans to build a new Aldi supermarket in Keynsham have sparked concerns about potential traffic disruptions on the busy A4 road, a key local councillor has warned. While the budget retailer’s proposal for a new store on the east side of town has garnered strong community support, questions remain about managing increased traffic flow.
The proposed layout allows vehicles to enter the Aldi car park directly from the A4, but the only exit would be onto World’s End Lane, opposite the Keynsham Recycling Centre. Keynsham East councillor Andy Wait (Liberal Democrat) noted: “The community will welcome a new store to boost local retail options, but I’m concerned about traffic flow around the site.”
World’s End Lane currently enforces a right-turn-only rule onto Pixash Lane, though this restriction is frequently ignored. Cllr Wait emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of the no-left-turn rule, warning that failure to do so could disrupt traffic on the A4.
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The council’s highways department has advised Aldi to remove the car park entry from the A4, recommending access solely via World’s End Lane. Officers cited safety concerns, highlighting that the A4 is heavily used by schoolchildren and already experiences peak hour congestion.
One local resident, Helen Mulholland, objected to the plan, arguing that traffic from World’s End Lane would still need to rejoin the A4 eventually, limiting the effectiveness of the proposed access arrangements.
Despite these concerns, public opinion on the council’s planning portal leans heavily in favor of the development, with 186 supportive comments compared to only 14 objections. Supporters like Keith Strover believe the new Aldi will relieve pressure on the current Tesco store, where parking is often difficult during peak times. Pensioner Marjorie Phillips welcomed the affordable shopping option closer to home, noting the inconvenience of traveling to Longwell Green to shop at Aldi.
However, some raise doubts about the legitimacy of the overwhelming support, pointing to repeated boilerplate letters submitted in favor of the application.
The planning application was submitted in July last year, with Bath and North East Somerset Council expected to reach a decision by December 15. Aldi has emphasized the community benefits of the new store, citing increased consumer choice and the creation of full-time jobs, alongside construction employment opportunities.
This new supermarket is part of the broader expansion of Keynsham’s eastern area, which includes the development of over 200 homes by housing association Curo on adjacent fields across the A4.