Retailer gets go-ahead for Antrim store

Environment Minister Sammy Wilson today granted planning approval for a proposed new supermarket in Antrim.

The new Asda store will be situated at the Junction One retail development on the outskirts of Antrim and will include a restaurant and parking for over 600 cars.

The Minister said: “I have given full consideration to all issues relating to this application and to all the representations my Department has received on this matter.

“Having weighed up all the arguments that have been made to the Planning Service, I believe the new store is unlikely to have adverse impact on the town centre’s viability.

“Nor do I foresee any unreasonable or detrimental impact on traffic movement or road safety.

“The granting of this application will, I believe, benefit the economy, creating much needed work in the construction and retail sectors at a time of economic downturn.”

Notes to Editors:

1. The application was submitted in July 2006 by Culzean Estates and McLaglan Investments.
2. It was designated as a major application under Article 31 procedures on 27 September 2006.
3. A number of environmental issues required to be addressed and this was finally completed in February this year.
4. For media enquiries contact DOE Press Office tel. 028 9054 0003 or out of office hours contact the EIS Duty Press Officer on 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.