A new service station – complete with restaurant and retail service units – could be built on the Dublin Road, on the outskirts of Newry city centre.
Morgans Fuels Ltd is hoping to demolish an existing 24-hour self-service facility on site and replace it with a larger and more varied development.
And it has been estimated that the new enterprise will create more than 10 jobs at the service station site.
The additional outlets – described as ‘retail service units’ – would be earmarked for tenants such as a hairdresser or barber, laundrette and other such purposes.
The plans include a dedicated forecourt, convenience store – of around 250 sq metres – and a restaurant.
There would also be toilet provision for customers, and storage provided for on site.
There will be car parking – close to 80 spaces – with specific HGV parking to the rear of the new development.
A new right turning lane from the Dublin Road would be provided to ensure no inconvenience to traffic flow.
Tree planting is also proposed for screening purposes.
The full application relates to a site at 251 Dublin Road, which includes the 24-hour self-service station, and associated former commercial buildings, previously operated as ‘Morgan’s Cafe and Truckers Lounge’.
The proposal includes an expansion to the site taking in part of an adjoining field.
A design and access statement urges council to approve the proposals and points to the benefits for the local area.
It explains: “It will involve the demolition of the existing unattractive buildings on site and the development of a modern facility providing a wider range of retail, restaurant and retail service facilities for travellers on the road network.”
The application will now be considered and consultations conducted before a recommendation comes back to Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s planning committee.
