A supermarket giant has revealed its plans for a new store on the outskirts of Hythe have been delayed.

Previously Aldi said it would move onto the Kengate Industrial Estate in Dymchurch Road, Hythe, this summer.

But the German budget chain this week revealed it won’t relocate from its smaller High Street store until next summer.

A spokesman said: “Subject to the planning process, we hope to open a new bigger store at Dymchurch Road in Hythe next year.

“This store will be in our new layout which ensures more space for our fresh, chilled and food-to-go ranges as well as simpler layouts, improved fixtures and brighter, wider aisles.”

He refused to comment on the reason for the delay.

Landlords this year served an eviction notice on independent merchants at the Kengate Estate, triggering an exodus of some 15 companies.

A handful of traders remain, including Wraight Mowers, Kent Motors and Riviera Tyres, owned by Andy Tunnage, who said: “With the store being delayed I think it would have been nice to have been given the opportunity to stay a little longer but now we have closed down the business anyway.

"We just want to get on with it.”

Mr Tunnage will take up work at a Dymchurch mechanics.

His colleague and brother Gary Tunnage has also found work while fellow mechanic Julian Haughton is going self-employed.

Stewart Wraight, of Wraight Mowers found a new premises in Benham Water Lymne and will soon move.

However, car parts dealer Alex Lucas, co-owner of Kent Motors, which employs seven staff, is yet to find a new venue.

Aldi launched its initial planning application for the 1,800 sq m superstore and 75-space parking bays in October.

If Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC) approves the bid, the retailer hopes to begin construction this year and employ up to 50 staff.

The proposals have received widespread support, with 271 comments in favour and eight objections on FHDC’s website.