On the final Countdown....

The appeal to the Countdown supermarket proposed for Stratford has been settled without the need for an environment court hearing, which was scheduled for December.

"It's really positive news for Stratford," says Mayor Neil Volzke. "The new supermarket will provide more choice for local shoppers and equally importantly up to 110 new jobs within our community."

An agreement has been reached between the parties, which has resulted in there being no further need for evidence to be prepared and exchanged in advance of the planned December court hearing date.

"I am really pleased that the resource consent issues that have hindered this project have been resolved and the various parties have reached a settlement.

"The agreement between the two objectors and Countdown means that no further Environment Court action will take place and avoids the costly legal fees associated with this action.

"Countdown's substantial investment in Stratford is a clear signal that there is genuine commercial opportunity here. I am optimistic that others may feel encouraged by this supermarket development and look seriously at new business opportunities in the Stratford area," Neil says.

With the latest information showing the district's population growing over the next 10 years, progress on the supermarket now gives council the certainty needed to do some solid planning around the CBD and future business needs for the town.

Countdown's general manager for property Adrian Walker says the company is pleased to move forward with plans for the new Countdown Stratford and is hoping to be on site by the end of the year.

"We're delighted to be able to bring our business to the Stratford community. We're looking forward to putting together a local team to bring the great value, range, quality and service that Countdown is known for, as well as further price competition in the area," Adrian says.

The new store is scheduled to open mid-2015. Recruitment information will be advertised in due course ahead of the opening date.