The store would wrap around existing business MV Hire, making use of Lots 166 Argyle Street and 6-8 Robertson Road.

Existing buildings on the properties would be demolished to allow for 84 car park spaces, signage and landscaping and construction of a supermarket, including a parent room, staff/office rooms, loading and storage areas and an accessible toilet.

MV Hire owner Roy Reynolds said he thought the development would be a stark improvement on the empty lots, disused for years.

“It needs a good tidy up to make the entrance to the town much more appealing and attractive,” he said. “I don’t know that we need more retail in Moss Vale, but the way water collects there and the blackberries don’t stop growing - something needs to be done.”

An ALDI Australia spokesperson said the store would have several benefits for the Highlands community. “ALDI Australia is excited to bring our unique shopping experience to more Australians, offering high quality products at permanently low prices and rewarding career opportunities,” they said.

The proposed store is in addition to two others in the Southern Highlands at Mittagong and Bowral and would employ up to 20 people, according to a report (Statement of Environmental Effects) prepared as part of council’s development application (DA) process.

“We have identified an opportunity to further expand to Moss Vale as we know there is a strong appetite among residents for an alternative place to shop,” they said.

“Shoppers can look forward to discovering more than 400 award winning grocery products in store every day, along with ALDI’s exciting Special Buys, fresh fruit, vegetables and bread delivered daily.”

The spokesperson said once development approval was received, construction of an ALDI store typically took up to 12 months.

“We look forward to helping more people in the Southern Highlands discover the benefits ALDI can bring to their wallets and their lifestyles.”

Further studies and reports will be carried out regarding drainage at the site and traffic in the surrounding area. The DA was on public exhibition through council from February 8 to March 10. Council staff will consider the proposal.