Green light for M&S expansion plan at Belfast International Airport
Planning permission has been granted for reconfiguration of a service station at Belfast International Airport to facilitate an extension to M&S.
The proposal was given the go-ahead at a meeting of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s Planning Committee, at Mossley Mill, on Monday evening.
Planning officer Ashleigh Wilson told the committee the site is “designated for airport related use”. She said the existing units would be reconfigured from three to provide two food and beverage units within the building.
She indicated the proposal would increase retail floor space by almost 200 sq metres and would increase the “back of house area” to include a bakery preparation area and cold room. Access to the site is at Airport Road.
A report to the committee said: “The proposal includes the reconfiguration of the existing food and beverage counters, with the removal of one food and beverage unit to leave an enlarged café and Burger King unit.”
It was noted, however, the overall floorspace of the site is not being increased with works “largely restricted” to the internal reconfiguration. Externally, there is a new trolley bay proposed. Eighty-five parking spaces will be retained at the facility.
The officer went on to say the proposed increase in floor space is in response to a “growing number” of airport passengers and customers are “largely” those using the airport.
She stated it was not considered the proposed development would have a “significant adverse effect” on the viability and vitality of any town centre. The recommendation was to grant permission.
Planning consultant Tom Stokes told the committee the planned development “represents a positive news story”. He noted the M&S branch was approved in 2016 “as part of a wider service station offer”.
He reported an increase in passenger figures at Belfast International Airport, from 4.4m in 2016 to 6.7m in 2024. He went on to say the rise has resulted in the M&S branch “performing 25 per cent above standard”.
“The proposal is in direct response to this. The increase will allow them to carry more lines,” he commented.
The committee report explained: “The proposed increase to the retail floorspace of the M&S unit will provide additional product lines (from 2,465 to 4,900 lines), as well as enhanced food storage and staff facilities.
Mr Stokes said it is hoped that M&S can commence the expansion work in the new year.
Threemilewater DUP Councillor Sam Flanagan proposed accepting the recommendation to approve the application, seconded by Macedon Ulster Unionist Cllr Robert Foster. Following a vote, planning permission was granted unanimously.
Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter