Discount supermarket giant Aldi is claiming widespread support for its new Perthshire development.
The company lodged a planning application with Perth and Kinross Council for a 13,500 sq ft outlet in Crieff.
Aldi originally expressed an interest in the Broich Road site earlier this year after Tesco announced it had scrapped its plan to open a store in the same area.
And now Aldi has confirmed proposals have been submitted for land next to the town’s new primary school.
The plans are expected to create about 50 jobs and include designs for a second retail unit.
An announcement on which chain will take over the neighbouring outlet is expected to be made, if and when the plans are approved.
Property director Andy Doyle said that 99% of locals who took part in a public consultation exercise had been in favour of the plans.
The remaining 1% was neutral and there were no objections, he said.
“This ringing endorsement from the Crieff community is most welcome and we are excited at the prospect of bringing increased retail choice to local shoppers,” Mr Doyle added.
“Our planning application is now with the council for their consideration. We have been made to feel very welcome in the town and I thank everyone for their interest and support.”
Stephen Leckie, chairman of Crieff Community Council, said: “We are delighted that Aldi has responded to our plea to bring a store to Crieff. An additional foodstore in the town is long overdue and it’s no surprise that the public’s reaction to Aldi’s plans has been so positive.”
He added: “The community council will be supporting the application. Although we don’t know who the second retailer is, I have little doubt there will be keen interest from major names.”
Tesco’s withdrawal from Crieff in January was described as a “kick in the teeth” for the community and local businesses.
Tesco pulled out of building its new store at nearby Duchlage Farm as part of a national scaleback after it over- estimated its profits by £250 million.
It later emerged that taxpayers will have to foot the bill for roadworks that the supermarket chain had previously agreed to pay for.
Aldi’s plans are being weighed up by council planners and a decision is likely to be made in the coming months.