Planning Application Lodged For Armagh Mall Site

Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has confirmed a planning application has been lodged to redevelop the Mall West site in Armagh.

Situated next to the city's historic Mall, the proposed development site consists of part of the multi-storey car park, adjacent land towards McCrum's Court and the existing Department of Agriculture and Rural Development building.

The site was first identified as part of the Armagh City Masterplan published in May 2009.

Minister McCausland said: "Last year I appointed Drumragh Property Investments Ltd as preferred developer to redevelop this key city centre site. I am pleased to announce that they have recently lodged a planning application and hope to be in a position to start construction early in 2014.

"A visualisation of the proposed development can be viewed in The Mall Shopping Centre in Armagh. The development of the site will facilitate private sector investment in Armagh and create construction jobs in the short term and ensure permanent jobs in the future for the retail sector. The progress of this site is a significant milestone in the delivery of the Armagh Masterplan."

Councillor Sharon Haughey-Grimley, Lord Mayor of Armagh City and District, added: "The Council is delighted to see the appointment of a developer for this very important site in Armagh City Centre. It is a crucial site in terms of its location between the Mall and Market Square and also as an attractive location for the creation of larger units adjacent to car parks that retailers demand.

"I look forward to seeing the plans progress through the planning system in a timely manner so that this important step in delivering the Masterplan, regenerating our city and attracting new investment."

(JP/CD)