A PLANNING objection that was set to delay the opening of a new Aldi store in Passage West has been withdrawn.

Cork County Council granted permission last month for the store to open on the site of the former Eurospar on the Rochestown Road. The latter closed in 2017, with the loss of 50 jobs.

However, an appeal was lodged to An Bord Pleanála by Dublin-based planning and development consultants Brock McClure on behalf of an individual, sparking anger among local representatives and residents.

The objection was criticised by local councillors for containing “inaccurate” information and sparked local action groups to set up petitions to make their feelings known to the planning authority that the community was supportive of the development.

Cllr Marcia D’Alton (IND), who lives in the town, said the store opening can now proceed and no further objections can be considered.

“Cork County Council’s planning permission is now what governs the planning application. It’s wonderful news. The town has a long way to come and this is the first stepping stone,” she said. “We had thousands of signatures on petitions ready to go. It’s been tremendous living in the town to see the way everybody has come together. Everybody has agreed and there has been a real sense of energy and positivity,” she added.

Seamus McGrath (FF) praised local groups and said their work was instrumental in seeing the planning objection withdrawn.

“It’s good news for the area. Everybody wants this to happen and Aldi can now proceed without delay and make any modifications to the building they see fit. There is great credit due to the community who came together and made their feelings of support for the opening of the store known,” he said.