Planners backing idea for superstore in town

Planners backing idea for superstore in town

21 January 2015

PLANNERS are recommending that plans to develop a major new supermarket in Ballynahinch town centre should proceed.

A recommendation to approve the development of a new 20,000 sq. ft. superstore at the site of the current SuperValu outlet in Lisburn Street will be discussed by Down councillors next Monday night.

A revised planning application to redevelop the Ballynahinch store, which is privately owned and backs on to a Roads Service car park, was submitted on January 7.

The prominent building has been at the heart of town centre retailing for a number of years, with residents who live adjacent to the store informed this week that the proposed redevelopment proposal is still alive, despite the imminent closure of the SuperValu outlet.

Ballynahinch traders have always opposed out-of-town supermarkets but have indicated they would welcome a store in the town centre as it would generate increased footfall.

It has emerged that as a result of revised plans for the proposed superstore being lodged last week, the Rivers Agency has indicated there is no increase in flood risk elsewhere as a result of the redevelopment proposal which includes a new underground parking and atrium at the rear of the building.

In addition, the Roads Service has indicated it would be willing to sell part of the car park it owns at the rear of the existing Ballynahinch store.

Ballynahinch councillor Anne McAleenan has welcomed the Planning Service recommendation to redevelop the store and hopes a tenant can be found.

“A new store can attract more shoppers to the town centre and provide an opportunity for them to see the wealth of local shops and businesses,” she added.