The deputy Prime Minister has rubber-stamped a decision allowing Aldi to build a new store in Balsall Common.

The chain applied in 2021 for the demolition of a vacant former service station on the old Edwins Autos site, to the north of Balsall Common, and construction of the supermarket.

The application featured plans for 93 parking spaces and a cycle shelter providing room for 16 bikes on the Kenilworth Road site.

Aldi was given the go-ahead for the build last October after Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council's planning committee voted unanimously in favour.

But following that decision, council officer Matt Preece wrote to Angela Rayner MP, the secretary of state for housing, communities and local government, referring the decision for a potential 'call in'. 

Whitehall officials quickly decided it did not need to be called in. 

A written reply to SMBC from Rachael Beard, representing the department, said: "The policy makes it clear that the power to call in a case will only be used very selectively. 

"This policy also gives examples of the types of issues which may lead her to conclude, in her opinion that the application should be called in. 

"The Secretary of State has decided not to call in this application.

"She is content that it should be determined by the local planning authority."

Solihull Council's website was updated on February 25 to confirm the supermarket had been given the green light.

During the planning meeting councillors heard the chain carried out its own consultation with the public and, of the 356 who responded, 80 per cent supported it. 

And 152 letters of support were submitted to the council with just two letters of objection.

During members' debate on the application Cllr Bob Grinsell said: "I lived in Kenilworth Road, I haven't lived there for over 50 years. 

"I still remember the car lot – the way I would describe it rather than a garage.

"It was an eyesore, it is still an eyesore today.

"I think it is an outstanding design, I think this fulfils very special circumstances (in relation to the green belt).

"I don't consider this true green belt because it has been built on before. 

"It is effectively redundant, it is not good for agriculture, it blots the visual aspects."

Cllr Dave Pinwell added: "It is an eyesore – I'm enthusiastic about a substantive development on the site far more attractive and useful for the community."