ALDI angst

By Nicole Williams
A NEW ALDI in Springvale South is a double-edged sword for local traders who fear a lack of carparking will drive shoppers away.
The planning application was refused by Greater Dandenong Council in August but ALDI took the matter to VCAT, who overturned the decision in November.
The proposed supermarket at the Springvale Plaza will be built on 50 existing car parks and 109 car parks will be waived with the planning permit, leaving only 176 car parks for the centre.
Daniel Cheng, owner of Khe Sanh restaurant, said the ALDI supermarket could improve business – if there was somewhere for diners to park.
“For lunch I would think it could improve our business with the traffic flowing to ALDI but our dinner has been doing quite well and that requires car parking spaces,” he said.
“It may be good but it may not be good.”
Pastor Andrew Beling from the Calvary Worship Centre agreed.
“We do feel that there will be parking issues but I guess only time will tell,” he said.
“There is likelihood shopping will improve which will mean everyone else (other traders) will generate business – but as a thriving centre there will be parking issues.”
Mayor Youhorn Chea supported the August motion to reject the proposal and said he was concerned with VCAT’s decision.
“Everyone is happy to have ALDI but we don’t know what will happen because of the car parking,” he said.
“The major concern is Saturday and Sunday when there is church and the reception centre is busy.”
Residents also took to the Star’s Facebook page to express concern.
Aaron Grant said it was already difficult to get a car park and Barbara Giannetti agreed.
“It would be great to have an ALDI in Springvale, but I must say to find a car park, it’s an absolute nightmare,” Ms Giannetti said.
Greater Dandenong Acting Director Development Services, Jody Bosman said council’s position on the application did not change but it had acted in accordance with VCAT’s direction.
A spokesman for ALDI said the store was expected to open by the end of 2012.