People will be asked for their views on a proposed Aldi store, which is expected to invest £7 million into the local economy.

The discount food retailer has revealed a public consultation date for the new branch in Maidstone Road, Chatham.

KentOnline reported this week that the multinational German company had taken over the former John Fisher Catholic Comprehensive School.

The now derelict building had previously served pupils for almost 60 years, along with the school’s other former site in Ordnance Street.

In February 2022, the school relocated to a new £40 million single campus in City Way, Rochester.

Signs had appeared outside the gates of the old Maidstone Road site, warning of the dangers of asbestos and carrying the logo of Aldi.

The supermarket giant confirmed works to clear the premises would “soon be under way”.

Aldi says the proposed 1,300sq m store will bring an investment of £7 million to the local economy.

It would also create up to 50 full-time jobs, paid at a rate above the National Living Wage.

Further employment opportunities are expected to be created during its construction.

A GCI image of the store has also been released ahead of the public consultation launch.

There will be 105 spaces for parking – including seven accessible and nine parent and child bays.

Four electric vehicle charging points will also be for use on-site, with additional infrastructure installed so more can be added in the future.

Surrounding the supermarket would be “attractive” landscaping to improve its appearance.

From Monday, February 10 until Sunday, February 23 a “virtual exhibition” of the store will be published online.

Once the link goes live, people will be able to view the plans and provide feedback.

A drop-in event will also be held on Monday, February 10, between 3pm and 7pm, at St Paul with All Saints Church in Magpie Hall Road.

Aldi real estate director, Rob McClellan, said: “We are thrilled to bring forward plans for a new Aldi store in Chatham, adding to our existing offer in the town.

“We encourage residents to participate in our virtual consultation or attend our public exhibition to learn more about the scheme and share their views.”

For more information, email Aldi@consultation-online.co.uk

The nearest branches in Medway are at Horsted and Gillingham retail parks, as well as Friary Place in Strood.