Magherafelt retail receives positive boost

by Gráinne Connolly

Retail in Magherafelt has received a boost following the approval of three planning applications by Mid Ulster District Council.

Meadowlane Shopping Centre in the town got the green light for two related proposals, the first allowing the change of use of a basement parking area for a new supermarket and the second for an extension to the existing multi-storey car park if the basement store is developed.

 
A third application from Forbes on the Castledawson Road in Magherafelt gives the go-ahead for the development of a drive-through restaurant, alterations to the retail store and a new, more central position for an access road.

Speaking after the decisions, Chair of the Council’s Planning Committee, Councillor Cáthal Mallaghan, said:

 “The retail sector is a mainstay of our local economy and ensuring businesses in our towns have the opportunities to grow and develop not only sustains, but strengthens our town centres as vibrant and varied shopping destinations.

“Planning has a vital role to play in this work and I am once again pleased that the Committee’s decisions are impacting positively on local business”.