A BUDGET supermarket aims to create hundreds of jobs in a warehouse expansion.

Aldi wants to extend its Darlington distribution site.

Bosses say the changes will create around 200 jobs across stock handling roles.

However, The Northern Echo understands the move may also deliver a number of driving posts.

The company says expansion of its Darlington site, based in the town’s Faverdale area, would give it greater chance of achieving its 1,000-store goal by 2020 and meet rising shopper demand.

The firm, alongside fellow low-cost operator Lidl, continues to take shoppers from Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda and Morrisons thanks to its discounted wares.

According to its Darlington plans, it wants to build an 8,000sq metre chiller and freezer extension, create additional wagon docking bays and increase office space.

Work could start next year.

A spokesman said: “Distribution centres have to expand to meet the demands expected from the business and the scale of the freezer and chiller is required to supply stores effectively.

“The extension of the Darlington centre is (also) a key part of our long-term plan to have 1,000 UK stores.

“The expansion, due for completion in 2018, will create around 200 warehouse and distribution jobs.”

However, the plans have received criticism from residents, who claim an extended warehouse would cause misery.

An objection from a couple living close to the plant says Aldi wagons make their home shake when travelling to and from the centre.

They said: “The operations of the centre already significantly affects the quality of life of our family.

“These vehicles are very noisy especially when they accelerate and decelerate at roundabouts.

“We desperately ask the council not to be blinkered by the economic argument and have some empathy with local people.”

The council is expected to make a decision later this year.