The new £4million Lidl superstore in Portadown, given the go-ahead just before Christmas, will open this year.
It’s full steam ahead for the flagship development in the town’s High Street Mall
The re-development of the Mall will enhance the retail offering for shoppers and it is hoped will help reinvigorate the town centre.
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart says she has received written confirmation that there will be no delays and this new store – by Hillsborough-based Brittas Property – will be open this coming year.
Said Ms Lockhart: “Consumers always want more and more choice and there is no doubt that Lidl to the local supermarket offering has helped provide that choice.
“Building upon their already very busy and successful store in Portadown, it is welcome news that we are now at a stage that Lidl can confirm their new store will be open in 2020.
“I have been working alongside the company to reach this end and it is very welcome news for the people of Portadown and surrounding area.
“Portadown offers a tremendous trading platform for any business and clearly Lidl recognise this with their continued investment.
“I will continue to work to bring further investment to the area as well as supporting existing business meet the challengers they face.”
The scheme represents a £4 million investment and will entail the reconfiguration of existing units and the incorporation of a new plaza.
In what is a challenging time for the retail industry, it is positive that Lidl have agreed to the new anchor tenant, with additional retailers to be announced as the development progresses.
The proposal involves internal and external alterations with new facades and extended pedestrian entrances to the car park and Woodhouse Street.
Amendments would also be made to access, as well as the reconfiguration of the service yard, the addition of a new loading bay or dock and service ramp, with amended customer ramp and ancillary works.
Leading consultancy firm Gravis Planning said the development “is a great news story for the mall which is expected to act as a catalyst in attracting further retailers and thereby improve the vitality and viability of the mall and the wider town centre generally by making the town centre more attractive as a retail destination and thereby attracting more footfall”.
