South Down MLA Karen McKevitt and Newry and Mourne MLA Dominic Bradley have welcomed planning approval for a mixed use development in Newry which they say will be a boost to the area and strengthen its position as an important retail hub.
Environment Minister Mark H Durkan has approved planning permission for industrial, retail and residential development on lands at Carnbane Way, Newry.
Both Karen McKevitt and Newry and Dominic Bradley believe the development will boost the local construction industry.
Ms McKevitt said: “The building of the project is expected to bring at least 300 jobs for the construction sector. As we all know, the construction industry has been through a rough few years and is still recovering. These jobs will be good news for many in the sector who have been out of work.
“It is also good news for entrepreneurs and for smaller businesses that will have the opportunity to avail of units and, for some, grow their businesses. When complete, it will hopefully add to the number of shoppers that are attracted to Newry, which will have positive knock-on effects for the local retail sector, and in turn helps the economy of whole community.”
Ms McKevitt added: “Newry already has outstanding shopping facilities and this development will complement the diverse range of existing retail outlets, which will benefit local consumers, those from across the north and further afield.”
Dominic Bradley said: “The SDLP, along with Newry and Mourne District Council, has supported this application all along. It strengthens Newry’s position as an important retail hub.
“The jobs, which will come from the construction of the project, will be very much welcome by the construction industry in the area. The construction industry has been under severe pressure for several years and this is a timely boost.
“The 70 light industrial/business units will be very welcome and will help Newry’s SMEs to continue to grow. The 14 residential units will also help to ease the housing situation in Newry.”
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