New Asda store edging closer

New Asda store edging closer

11 June 2025

PLANS to build a new £22m Asda superstore, three retail units and petrol station in Downpatrick have taken a significant step forward.

Tender submissions to carry out the work are currently being reviewed and a contractor is to be appointed shortly.

The redevelopment of the Downe Retail Park at the Ballydugan Road is being overseen by landlord Celpark Ltd and it’s believed it won’t be long before contractors are on site.

It was hoped work to bulldoze three existing retail units and the Asda store – which all suffered catastrophic damage to their foundations and resulted in their immediate closure in November 2023 – would have begun at the start of the year.

But there was a delay.

However, hopes are high that a contractor will be on site soon to build the new 9,000 square metre store which will create an additional 40 jobs, with the shop at the new garage twice the size of the building it is replacing.

The new store, which is 700 square metres larger than the one it will replace, will be built on a footprint which includes the current Poundstretcher, Peacocks and Harry Corry outlets and the large car park.

The non-food retail stores will be built adjacent to the existing New Look store, while the current petrol station will also be redeveloped with existing underground fuel tanks replaced.

Current car parking arrangements will be reconfigured as part of the redevelopment proposal and when complete there will be 465 spaces that will include EV charging points.

It is also being suggested that demolition and construction work has the potential to support up to 150 jobs in the area.

In addition, new traffic traffic lights will be erected at the entrance to the retail park where there have been a series of accidents over recent years at the Ballydugan Road entrance. The new lights are designed to make the junction safer.

Celpak views the redevelopment proposal for the retail park as an opportunity to establish a major landmark shopping destination for both Downpatrick and wider communities, with Asda previously confirming the new store will feature a full range of groceries and fresh foods including the Exceptional and Just Essentials by Asda lines as well as George clothing.

The key players involved in the investment expect it to bring a much-needed retail boost to the Downpatrick area, enhancing its retail landscape and attracting footfall due to the increased convenience and amenities it will provide for the town.

Last year, there was overwhelming support for the investment during a 12-week public consultation.

Planning papers have revealed that the construction method on the new store and non-food retail units will be similar to that used to build the Halfords, Argos, Costa and New Look stores at the retail park which have not been affected by flooding or structural issues.

A spokesman for Celpark Ltd, a subsidiary of the Comer Group which has a significant presence in a number of European cities, said “good progress” was being made in relation to the redevelopment of the Downe Retail Park will secure local employment.

“Tender submissions for the build are currently being reviewed with a view to agreeing the appointment of a contractor shortly,” he added.

Downpatrick councillor Gareth Sharvin said people will be keen to see demolition and construction work starting at the retail park.

“While there is a temporary store in place, people are eager to shop in an ultra-modern store which carries a comprehensive range of products. The new store can also help increase town centre footfall,” he said.

“News that building work on the new store and retail units could start soon is positive for the retail park and will provide it and the other retailers there with renewed impetus.”