Aldi submits plans for new store in Polegate, Eastbourne

The proposed Aldi would be constructed on a currently vacant site east of Eastbourne Road, in Polegate.

The supermarket chain revealed its intentions for the new store back in February.

Following public consultations, Aldi has now formally submitted a planning application.

This application not only seeks permission for the supermarket but also proposes the construction of a care home adjacent to the new food store.

The proposed site outlined in red (Image: Aldi) The application states: "The masterplan, comprising of a food store and a care home, seeks to create a sustainable development, which includes a mix of uses to support everyday activities, including live, work and shop."

The full site comprises an irregular rectangular four and a half acres of land, located off the A2270, Eastbourne Road.

The proposed site is immediately south of an Esso petrol station that also contains a Tesco Express store.

Previously, the site served as playing fields for the Eastbourne College of Higher Education and later for the University of Brighton, but has been disused since 1997.

An image of how the new store would look (Image: Aldi) The care home would encompass an area just under two acres, with a height of 13 metres over three floors, and is expected to house approximately 75-80 beds.

However, the care home is being proposed in 'outline' only, meaning that further details will be decided later on, if the plan is approved in principle.

The masterplan aims to deliver a well-designed neighbourhood, integrating a mix of housing types and facilities to meet local demand.

The proposed development is designed to encourage sustainable lifestyles and to provide convenient services within walking and cycling distance on accessible routes to local homes and other local facilities.

An image of the site as it currently looks (Image: Aldi) Read more:

The planning application states: "The Aldi will compliment the other local amenities, creating opportunities for convenient, linked trips which support the daily life of residents.

"The proximity to the residential areas of Eastbourne Road and Polegate ensures that it is possible for the store to be reached by residents without the use of a car, promoting sustainable developments and suitable travel methods."

The planning application is currently under consideration by Wealden District Council, and can be viewed using the reference WD/2025/0904/MAJ.