Empty store takes on new lease of life

Empty store takes on new lease of life

24 April 2013

THE former Pinewick furniture store in Ballynahinch is now home to three businesses, with local politicians hoping the expansive Magheraknock Road site will attract a number of others.

The 30,000 square foot complex — which closed last year — is now home to DATUM Design which designs products for use in the aerospace industry. It employs 14 people and is expected to expand, creating more job opportunities.

Garden Escapes, which specialises in playground equipment and employs five people, has relocated to the Magheraknock Road site alongside the Great Outdoors Gym Company.

News that over half the available floorspace at the former furniture store has been let has been welcomed by Strangford MP Jim Shannon.

Last week, he met on site with representatives from the firms which have moved to the Magheraknock Road and was joined by MLAs Simon Hamilton and Michelle McIlveen and Councillor Garth Craig.

Mr. Shannon, who was also joined by site owner Bill Watson, chairman of Knocklofty Associates, said repair work has been carried out to the roof of the former Pinewick premises which he said offer local businesses “great potential.”

“The premises are centrally located, easily accessible and a golden opportunity exists for business owners looking for accommodation,” he said. “The former furniture offers great potential.”

Councillor Craig said he’s delighted three businesses have opened at the former Pinewick furniture store, providing much-needed local employment.

He also hopes more jobs will be created when the remaining available space at the Magheraknock Road complex is let.

Councillor Craig added: “The move by three businesses to the former Pinewick store has provided a much-needed boost for Ballynahinch. Given the town’s close proximity to the M1 in nearby Lisburn, the Magheraknock business park is well placed to maximise future business opportunities.

“I would encourage anyone interested in setting up in business or existing businesses wishing to expand to consider the benefits of this site.”