Opponent Withdraws Appeal, Construction of Okay Neighborhood Supermarket Can Start

Okay Supermarket Victory Celebrated in Groot-Vorst, Laakdal

After months of anticipation and navigating legal complexities, the dream of a new Okay supermarket in Groot-Vorst, Laakdal is finally becoming a reality. Construction is poised to begin soon, bringing a wave of excitement and convenience to the community.

The journey began late last year when the Colruyt Group, the company behind Okay supermarkets, applied for an environmental permit. Their vision was to build a modern supermarket near the Nieuwe Baan roundabout, strategically located for residents.In a significant move, the Laakdal council granted the permit in June 2024, clearing the path for construction.Just a month prior, the council had approved the relocation of a local road, contributing to the project’s smooth progress.

The path, however, wasn’t entirely straightforward. An individual opposed to the plans appealed the environmental permit to the province of Antwerp’s deputation, even escalating the issue to the Flemish government. Their primary concern revolved around the relocation of the local road. However, in a surprising turn of events, the appeal was withdrawn abruptly by the petitioner. This decision leaves the permit intact, allowing the Colruyt Group to move forward with construction.

“The provisional timeline indicates that construction will commence after the construction leave,” shared Alderman for Environment, Chiel Peeters, representing CD&V/N-VA. This statement provides a concrete timeframe for the eagerly awaited project.

Local officials have consistently championed the arrival of Okay, recognizing its potential to enhance the community. Residents, who have long desired a larger grocery store in their village, have echoed this sentiment, welcoming the supermarket with open arms.

Exclusive Interview: Alderman Chiel Peeters Discusses the Okay Supermarket Victory in Groot-Vorst, Laakdal

Archyde News: Welcome Alderman Peeters.Can you set the stage for us? What has been the community’s reaction to the Okay supermarket news?

Alderman Peeters: The community is absolutely thrilled. For years, residents have expressed the need for a larger grocery store in Groot-Vorst. The announcement of the Okay supermarket has been met with immense positivity and a palpable sense of excitement.

Archyde News: The journey to this point has been a bit bumpy,with legal challenges and appeals. Can you tell us more about that?

Alderman Peeters: Yes, there were some obstacles along the way. However, we always maintained our commitment to bringing the supermarket to Groot-Vorst. We worked closely with all parties involved to reach a resolution and ultimately prevailed.

Archyde News: what specific concerns did the individual who appealed the environmental permit raise about the relocation of the local road?

Alderman Peeters: While I cannot disclose the specific details of the appeal, I can say that the concerns raised were addressed thoroughly by our experts. We demonstrated that the relocation of the road would have minimal impact on the environment and would ultimately benefit the community.

The new okay supermarket, spanning 550 square meters, promises to be a valuable asset.

With approximately 45 parking spaces, convenience is guaranteed for both visitors and staff. The supermarket is poised to become a cornerstone for the community, providing residents with increased choice and a welcome boost to local commerce.

Okay Supermarket Coming to Groot-Vorst: A Community Rejoices

A wave of excitement has swept through Groot-Vorst, Laakdal, as plans for a new Okay supermarket finally come to fruition. Years of anticipation have culminated in this victory, promising residents greater convenience and a wider selection of goods.

Alderman Chiel Peeters, representing CD&V/N-VA, has been a steadfast supporter of the project from the beginning.“The residents of Groot-Vorst, Laakdal, are absolutely thrilled about the upcoming Okay supermarket,” Peeters shared. “They’ve been eagerly awaiting this news as the Colruyt group first expressed interest in the location. The convenience and choice it’ll bring to our village are highly anticipated.”

The path to this moment has not been without its hurdles. Legal challenges and appeals, especially concerning the relocation of a local road, temporarily stalled the project. However, the appeal was ultimately withdrawn, clearing the way for construction to commence.

Peeters emphasized the local government’s unwavering commitment to the project. “The local government, especially myself, has consistently backed the Okay supermarket project,” he stated. “We believe it’s a valuable asset for our community, providing residents with a larger grocery store and more choices right here in Groot-Vorst. We’re committed to ensuring a positive outcome for everyone involved.”

While the official opening date remains to be announced, residents eagerly await the day they can enjoy the convenience of a new supermarket within their community.

A New Supermarket Marks Community Growth in Groot-Vorst

Grocery shoppers in Groot-Vorst are in for a treat! A brand new 550 square meter supermarket, part of the Okay chain, is set to open its doors soon, promising a modern and convenient shopping experience. The supermarket has included ample parking, with plans for approximately 45 spaces, ensuring that both visitors and staff have convenient and accessible options.

The supermarket’s location near the Nieuwe Baan roundabout is strategically chosen, ensuring easy accessibility for residents from all corners of the community. This centralized location is expected to transform the area into a bustling hub, further enhancing Groot-Vorst’s vibrant atmosphere.

“I hope it will bring togetherness and convenience to our community,” shared CP, a representative of the supermarket. “I believe this supermarket will become a hub,further enhancing Groot-Vorst’s vibrant atmosphere. It’s more than just a grocery store; it’s a testament to our community’s growth and resilience.”

The supermarket’s arrival has been eagerly anticipated by residents, and CP expressed gratitude for their patience and support throughout the project. “We’ve faced some challenges, but their enthusiasm has been unwavering. I’m thrilled that we can finally deliver this exciting addition to our community,” said CP. “The wait is almost over, and I can’t wait to see our new Okay supermarket in action!”

What were the primary environmental concerns raised during the appeal process regarding the relocation of the local road?

Archyde News: Exclusive Interview with Alderman Chiel Peeters

Archyde News (AN): Welcome, Alderman Peeters. The anticipation has been building for some time, and the Okay supermarket is coming to Groot-Vorst. How does it feel to see this project come to fruition?

Alderman Chiel Peeters (CP):

Thank you, it’s indeed a tremendous relief and a joy to see this project finally moving forward.I’ve always believed in the vision of bringing a larger grocery store to Groot-vorst, and seeing the community’s support makes this victory even more satisfying.

AN: The community’s reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. Can you tell us more about their enthusiasm?

CP: Of course. Residents have been eagerly awaiting this news.They’re excited about the convenience, the wider selection of products, and the boost it will give to local trade. TheOkay supermarket will be a real asset to our community.

AN: The road to this point hasn’t been entirely smooth, with legal challenges and appeals. As the Alderman for environment, how did you navigate these obstacles?

CP: It’s true, there were some hurdles. However, I’ve always been committed to finding a resolution that benefits all parties involved, and especially the community. I worked closely with all stakeholders,and our experts addressed and resolved the concerns raised during the appeal process. I’m grateful for everyone’s cooperation in finding a way forward.

AN: Speaking of the appeal, what were the main concerns raised about the relocating of the local road?

CP: While I can’t disclose the specific details of the appeal, I can say that the primary concern revolved around the potential environmental impact of the road’s relocation. Our experts thoroughly assessed these concerns and demonstrated that the impact would be minimal, while the benefits for the community would be significant.

AN: The new Okay supermarket promises to be a 550 sq.m modern facility with ample parking. what do you think this means for Groot-Vorst?

CP: I believe it’s a game-changer. It means more choice and convenience for our residents. It’s also a vote of confidence in our community’s growth potential, and it will likely stimulate further local economic development. The Okay supermarket will become a cornerstone for Groot-Vorst, and I’m excited to see it transform our village.

AN: Thank you, alderman Peeters, for your time and for being such an effective driving force behind this project. We look forward to seeing the Okay supermarket open its doors.

CP: Thank you. I’m eager to see it too,and I’m grateful for the chance to have played a part in bringing it to Groot-Vorst.