A GOVERNMENT planning expert will finally decide whether a new cut-price superstore will be built in Britain’s most affluent city.

As the credit crunch continues to bite, supermarket giant Aldi has continued its controversial fight to build a shop in Winchester.

Council planners have already rejected the proposals four times but the company is appealing and the final decision now rests with a Government planning inspector.

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Aldi wants to build on the former Chimney’s site in Burnett Close, Weeke, next to the site where upmarket superstore Waitrose expects to open a store next September.

A previous application by Germanbased Aldi generated nearly 500 objecting, one of the highest figures recorded.

During the three-day public inquiry Trevor Ward, representing the city council, said the case was refused because of the unacceptable impact on the character of the area and unacceptable servicing arrangements for the site.

Councillor Richard Worrall, who represents the area, said: “No one has an objection to an Aldi in Winchester, just not on this site.What Aldi is proposing is too big for this space.”

But Aldi spokesman Neil Cameron argued: “This development will regenerate the site.

“We are providing a quality discount food store which the public can access on foot or via public transport.

“This will be of particular benefit as was communicated by the Weeke Tenants’ and Residents’ Association.”