Minister gives green light for Larne retail superstore
Published on Tue, 8 Jun 2010
Environment Minister Edwin Poots today gave the green light to a multi-million pound investment which will create hundreds of jobs in Larne.
The Department set out its opinion to approve a planning application by the Co-operative Group to redevelop its current foodstore into a new retail superstore. The development will provide a welcome contribution to retail facilities in the town centre, which when fully operational, will secure 200-300 full and part time jobs.
Minister Poots said: "This development will help to regenerate Larne town centre and provide much needed better quality retail facilities to local people. Furthermore, it will provide job security during the current economic climate.
"This multi-million pound investment will bring with it around 100 construction jobs and hundreds more retail jobs. It is yet another indication of the confidence investors have in Northern Ireland.
The new superstore will be built in the town centre with new access points via the Circular Road. The retail facility will more than double in size providing some 5600sqm of floorspace, and incorporates car parking facilities.
The Department is currently consulting the Council on its opinion to approve this significant application. Full details of the application are set out in the Council schedule.
Notes to Editors:
- Planning Application F/2009/0314F was received on 26 October 2009. It comprises demolition of existing buildings and erection of retail superstore with associated car parking on the Co-Op store site and lands adjacent to Circular Road, Larne.
- The proposed development will provide gross floorspace of 5620sqm.
- This is the second significant retail investment in Larne in recent times. Planning Application F/2007/0418F for a mixed use £20m development comprising food store, cinema and restaurants was approved in April 2009.
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