Aldi plans to open a massive new multi-million pound store in Cambridge and supermarket bosses want shopper's views - and some have alrerady given their verdict.

If given the green light, the new supermarket would replace Wickes in Newmarket Road and bring up to 50 new jobs to the area.

Aldi already has a store on Histon Road but wants to expand.

Shoppers have already had their say on social media.

Writing on the News' Facebook page, Lolly Rafery said: "Lidl or Morrison’s would be better than duplicates of what is already in the city."

Jean Freestone thought the Aldi would be better in the Beehive shopping centre where Toys 'r Us recently closed.

She said: "The Beehive, lots of shops are closed. Plenty of parking."

Writing on the News website, Legin5 said: "Yes brilliant puts more pressure on the greedy main supermarkets who’s monopoly in Cambridge needs a challenge."

While Al S was concerned about traffic.

He said: "It'll be interesting what Highways have to say. an Aldi is likely to generate far more vehicle movements than the current Wickes.

"The site entrance for motor vehicles is poor- in and out on the eastbound carriageway only, with no prospect of a full junction due to how close the next junction is.

"Ideally there would be access via Cheddars Lane or Stanley Road, but either of those would require land purchase and demolition. And then, of course, there's cycle access."

Others also thought it was in the 'wrong place' but the majority of readers were pleased at having another shopping option.

What Aldi say

A spokeswoman for the supermarket giant said: "ALDI has wanted to open a second store in Cambridge for many years, to make it easier for local people to shop and save with Aldi.

What the new Aldi will look like

"The Histon Road store is very popular and we have now identified a new site, that we are confident will be a convenient location for customers living to the east of Cambridge."

This is the plan

Aldi site plan

The spokeswoman added: "The proposed Aldi would be on the site of Wickes at 393 Newmarket Road.

"Proposals seek an extension and improvement to the existing building, to provide a contemporary, energy efficient store, with a sales area of 1,255 sqm, maintaining the same vehicular access."

Parking

The Aldi site map

Aldi said: "The proposals would provide 114 car parking spaces within the site, which include ‘parent and child’ spaces, spaces for disabled users, and cycle parking spaces.

"The store will better provide for the day to day needs of the local population, and improve local shopping choice, complementing other national and local retailers.

"In recent years, Aldi has been winning more customers every week and the proposed store will bring the very best of Aldi's offer to more Cambridge residents, providing an attractive smart shopping environment, with wide aisles and eye-catching product displays."

What the new Aldi would look like if given the green light

Have your say

Questionnaires will be sent out to homes across Cambridge and will be available at the Aldi in Histon Road.

By completing the questionnaire and returning it using the FREEPOST address provided, you can let Aldi know your views and ask any questions or provide feedback by calling Aldi on: 020 7357 8000 or emailing: aldicambridge@planningpotential.co.uk.

All comments on the planning application must be received by Cambridge City Council by April 13, 2018.

It is not yet known when Wickes would close, or if any jobs are at risk. The DIY firm has been asked for comment, but has not yet responded.