CONSTRUCTION work has started on a new discount supermarket in Andover – but the opening has been delayed by nearly six months.

Aldi are due to open their new Weyhill Road store later this year and construction work has already begun on the site, formally a Peugeot car dealership.

The German retailers originally targeted an opening in Spring.

However the supermarket giants are now predicting that they will open sometime in Autumn.

A spokesperson for Aldi declined to comment on the reason for the delay.

The multi-million pound “latest generation” store is expected to be around 1,140 square meter in size and will have an onsite car park with 90 spaces, including both disabled and parent and children places.

The redevelopment is expected to create around 40 jobs and the retailers have confirmed they are currently looking for applicants.

A spokesperson said “We are really excited to be progressing our brand new store for Andover, with our intention to be opening for business in Autumn this year.

“Like other stores, our plans for Andover will boost the local economy and help shoppers achieve real value for money when undertaking their weekly shop.

“We have already started the process of recruiting individuals to run the store.

“I urge all those interested in joining our team at Aldi later this year to apply via our website.”

The spokesman added: “Employees can expect an hourly rate of £8.40, which is the highest rate of pay within the supermarket industry and above the government’s recently-announced National Living Wage.

“Aldi does not use ‘zero hours’ contracts and employees will be offered a contract of a minimum of 25 to 30 hours per week.”

Will you use the new Aldi?

What other shops does Andover need?

Please email your views to newsdesk@andoveradvertiser.co.uk.