SUPERMARKET giant Aldi has confirmed that work will start next year on its multi-million-pound new Keighley store.

And it has been revealed that in addition to retail 'pods', the site will also be home to a drive-thru cafe operated by growing Canadian fast-food chain Tim Hortons.

News of a start on developing the long-derelict East Parade plot comes after revised plans submitted by Aldi were approved by Bradford Council.

In addition to replacing its existing store, the discount retailer had initially applied for another large retail unit, drive-thru cafe and three smaller shops on the site – and the application was given the go-ahead early last year.

But in the amended scheme, the second large unit has been dropped, the Aldi store repositioned and smaller shops redesigned.

Vehicular access for customers into and out of the site will be via an existing modified point from Gresley Road.

The new development will include 252 parking spaces, which the council has stipulated should include a number of charging points for electric vehicles. There would also be designated spaces for blue badge holders and parent and toddler bays.

Aldi says the development will "future-proof" the jobs of staff at the current Gresley Road store, through relocation to the new bigger site, and that employment will be created during the construction stage.

A company spokesperson said this week: "We are delighted to receive permission for the revised scheme and work will commence next year."

The news has been welcomed by senior community figures.

Town mayor, Councillor Luke Maunsell, says: "Any positive developments in the town should be praised.

"The jobs and services on offer through this scheme are to be applauded and I am glad the proposals have been amended.

"I look forward to seeing this come to fruition and hope that it opens a new, successful chapter for this part of our wonderful town."

Keighley's MP, Robbie Moore, hails the development as a "vote of confidence" for the town.

He added: "It is fantastic to see a disused, derelict brownfield site being given a fresh new start – bringing jobs and growth to our town without harming our precious green spaces."

Once work gets underway, the land will have been vacant for over a decade.

The former mill site was originally earmarked for an ambitious £30m shopping centre, which was proposed to include a cinema and restaurants, but the scheme didn't reach fruition.

A council planning spokesperson says: "The application site has lain vacant for a number of years, following the demolition of the former works there.

"The site is viewed when entering and leaving Keighley town centre.

"The redevelopment of the land would be welcomed in improving its appearance and the perception of this part of the town centre."

Tim Hortons opened its first West Yorkshire branch, in Birstall, last year. It has over 60 outlets across the UK, with more due to open soon.