A PROPOSAL to build a new out-of-town shopping complex in Ballynahinch has been refused planning permission.
Stormont planning minister Alex Attwood has vetoed the development of a 3,175 square metre food superstore at the Belfast Road. His decision has been welcomed by the head of the town’s Chamber of Commerce.
Retail giant Tesco had been heavily linked with the proposed development which was being spearheaded by local business entrepreneur Mr. John Miskelly.
Announcing his decision, Mr. Attwood explained he was refusing the Ballynahinch proposal — which would have resulted in the demolition of a number of existing buildings — after “careful consideration and interrogation of all of the issues.”
He argued the retail impact of the proposed shopping complex at a site opposite Redburn Nursing Home would be “too great on the long term future of Ballynahinch town centre.”
Mr. Attwood said the Belfast Road proposal was also “clearly contrary” to planning policy in relation to retailing and town centres and was therefore unacceptable.
“I am constantly seeking to identify job opportunities, but these must be sustainable and not at the cost of town centre traders,” he declared.
The Minister explained the Ballynahinch application had been in the planning system since 2007 and it was agreed in August 2010 that undetermined, it would be held until the applicant/landowner was able to bring forward a new and acceptable scheme for the site, through discussions with planning officials.
He continued: “It was time to call this application as I believe it is important to bring a greater degree of certainty for all involved; landowners, investors, business people and the communities of Ballynahinch.
“As with all major planning applications, I am making decisions after careful consideration of the individual merits of each case. This decision further demonstrates my determination to clear the backlog, make decisions and see a planning system more fit to achieve its purpose.”
Welcoming Mr. Attwood’s decision, Ballynahinch Chamber of Commerce president Mark Murnin said what is needed is town centre development.
“Mr. Attwood’s decision is welcome. We would like to see any new development in the town centre as that will boost footfall and help existing businesses,” he continued.
“Traders in Ballynahinch are losing out with shoppers heading to Newcastle, Downpatrick, Sprucefield and Forestside where there are major retailers.”
Mr. Murnin said the Chamber would like to see any new investment in Ballynahinch concentrated in the town centre where he suggested a number of potential sites are available for development “to help stop the drain of shoppers out of the area.”
He added: “We would welcome major new retail development to assist with Ballynahinch’s economic regeneration, provided it’s located in the town centre.”
But the decision to refuse permission for the new out-of-town shopping complex has been criticised by Down District UKIP representative Alan Lewis.
He added: “Minister Attwood has approved development in other places like Newry, yet has turned down development in Ballynahinch which needs major investment to inject new life into the town. His decision is a blow for job opportunities, local shoppers and retail development within Ballynahinch.”