Business leaders in a Shropshire town have cautiously welcomed the influx of big name retailers moving in. Peacocks and Aldi have revealed plans to open in Whitchurch.

While people have been happy to see the promise of new businesses and jobs moving into the town, especially during the current financial climate, the are still fears smaller traders could struggle to compete.

Clothing giant Peacocks has confirmed it is considering plans to open a new store in the town centre next year.

The announcement came just days after Aldi announced plans for a new supermarket on Waymill’s Road, which would create 15 new jobs.

Both retailers are following Home Bargains into Whitchurch. The store has created about 30 jobs so far since opening last month.

Linda Bate, chairman of the Whitchurch Chamber of Trade, said she was pleased to see the town thriving, but still had concerns for the independent retailers.

She said: “I do have some concerns for the little guys though who have to compete with the big names that are coming in.”

Nikki Goodyer and Andy Bettison, owners of Wagstaffe’s of Whitchurch, a clothing and shoes store, said any new investment was welcomed cautiously.

Mr Bettison said he was not concerned Peacocks would be a threat to his store, but said there needed to continue to be a range of different businesses.

Aldi will reveal detailed plans at an exhibition at the Civic Centre on Monday, from 4pm until 8pm.