Maitland Mall new home for Aldi

A liquor license application has revealed the supermarket giant plans to build a store in the Maitland Hunter Mall, not on Elgin Street as originally planned.

An application for a liquor license was submitted on December 21, which detailed changes to the store’s proposed location. The application has since been publicly displayed between K-Mart and Best and Less in the Hunter Mall. 

“It is now proposed the ALDI Supermarket will occupy a shop within the Hunter Maitland Mall (not at the proposed location in Elgin Street),” Aldi’s notice of intention read.

The document goes on to say the nature of liquor trade will remain unchanged and in-keeping with other ALDI stores; comprised of a limited range of ALDI branded beers, wines and spirits within a partitioned part of the store.

This is the first concrete evidence of the supermarket giant’s plans to establish a store in the mall, following rumours in November.

Maitland Mayor Peter Blackmore said, if true, it was very exciting news.

"What a great start to the new year,” he said.

"At this stage it looks like something is on the move. I hope the company comes out and makes an official announcement soon."

A spokesman from Liquor and Gaming NSW confirmed the company had applied for the changes. The spokesman added the document was part of a Community Impact Statement which invited the public to submit comment. 

License hours will remain unchanged from the original application; Monday to Wednesday and Friday from 8am until 8.30pm, Thursday 8am until 9pm, Saturday 8am until 8pm and Sunday 10am until 8pm. 

Aldi confirmed plans for a Central Maitland store in November 2013 and aimed to open within 18 months.

It initially lodged a development application for the former home of Sam’s Warehouse on Elgin Street. The site has remained vacant for several years. 

To make a submission about the proposal, contact Grant Cusack of Hatzis Cusack Lawyers at (02) 9221 9300 or gc@hatziscusack.com.au