For more than 10 years the former Burger King unit in the Mall Shopping Centre in Armagh has lain empty – but now there appears to be some ‘sight’ at the end of the tunnel.
It is understood optical specialists Specsavers will be making the move as part of an ongoing bid to transform the shopping centre.
The Turkington Group purchased the centre back in 2023 and has invested heavily, as well as ensuring the renewal of the Sainsbury’s lease as the anchor tenant.
For years, speculation surrounded the former Burger King store, which actually comprises two units.
In 2015, plans were drawn up to bring a leading coffee shop to the units, but those proposals failed to materialise.
However, it now looks like Specsavers Armagh – which was officially incorporated in January – will be the newest addition to the centre – and Armagh.
They are currently recruiting, but it remains to be seen when they will officially open their store.
The news will be welcomed, especially on the back of a raft of shop closures in the city centre.
On Thursday, Pure Magic Boutique – based on Thomas Street – was the latest to close its doors.
Katrina Barber and her Pure Magic Boutique
“And that’s a wrap in Thomas Street Armagh,” wrote its owner Katrina Barber.
“Gutted that I am closing. Unfortunately, due to rising costs and low footfall in Armagh at the moment, I had to make the decision to close up after three years.
“I will definitely miss this shop, it was my first ever shop.
“A massive thank you to everyone who has helped me over the years and to all our lovely customers. I am going to miss you all.
“Thank you to Carol, Shannon, Lochlann and everyone who has worked for Pure Magic over the years for all your hard work. ✨️
This is not good bye, but I see you all again very soon. I will be trading online for a while. I can deliver locally and post out to you. See you all again soon! Katrina.”
Speaking to Armagh I, Katrina added: “It is a sad day. I am from the Armagh area and I also went to school in Armagh so I was delighted to open a shop here, but unfortunately due to the low footfall, I had to close my doors. I have really enjoyed my three years in Armagh and I will hopefully be back very soon.”
