Dozens of jobs are set to be created in Bangor following further development at Balloo Retail Park.
A recently completed multi-million pound investment saw a 60,000 sq ft Sainsbury’s open at the scheme and the existing Homebase unit updated.
Planning approval is now in place for a further 20,000 sq ft of retail space, covering either one large or two smaller retail units.
It is expected the first phase of development will draw interest from retailers for the new space, which will cover either one large or two smaller units.
David McNellis is agency director at Lisney, Balloo Retail Park’s letting and managing agent.
He said: “The first phase of the redevelopment involved a complex deal to tailor the existing Homebase space and accommodate a major new Sainsbury’s supermarket. The second phase, which we will be releasing shortly, will provide a great opportunity for retailers who are complementary to Sainsbury’s and Homebase to benefit from a very prominent location in a high footfall, revitalised retail park.
“We have already had significant interest in the second phase from a range of quality retailers, and we expect even more interest now that Sainsbury’s has opened and is drawing a large number of shoppers.”
It is thought that resulting investment would create dozens of new jobs.
When the second phase of development is complete, Balloo Retail Park will comprise more than 130,000 sq ft of retail space with car parking spaces and a filling station.
Bank of Ireland funded the investment for the new Sainsbury’s. Richard McNamara, senior business manager at Bank of Ireland UK, said: “Bank of Ireland has worked with John Morgan Estates Ltd for many years and we are delighted to support the redevelopment of this retail park in Bangor.
“It is particularly satisfying to work with a customer where their business growth will have a positive impact on the area through job creation and commercial development and we look forward to continuing this partnership with them on future developments.”