£10m Extension Approved For Down Food Supplier

A £10m extension has been approved for an artisan food producer in County Down.

Planning approval has been granted by Environment Minister Mark H Durkan for Finnebrogue in Downpatrick.

The 2,250 sqm extension at the company’s existing premises at Down Business Park in Downpatrick represents phase one of a larger scheme of investment in the site.

Once all phases are completed it is anticipated that the company will be in a position to support 230 employees.

The alterations and extension will provide dry goods storage, chilled storage, preparation, a mixing area, an engineer’s workshop, a plant room and staff and office facilities.

Minister Durkan said: "This is good news for Downpatrick. This major investment will boost the local economy. It will provide construction jobs in the short term with further skilled jobs created in the long term.

"This application was turned around in less than three months. This demonstrates the advantages of working with DOE Planning and submitting good quality applications and supporting information. This is all part of my vision for a fast, fair and fit for purpose planning system that builds a better environment and a stronger economy."

(IT)