Antrim and Newtownabbey approves longer Sunday trading ahead of Easter

The borough council says that this arrangement is temporary and has been put in place to cover the period until Sunday, March 28, 2021 inclusive.

A similar arrangement was in operation in the run-up to Christmas as a result of the Covid pandemic. Click here

The decision means that retail outlets in excess of 280sq metres will be able to trade on Sunday mornings from 10am onwards.

Normal liquor licensing provisions are not affected by this relaxation.

The council has been advised that during the Covid pandemic, it is “reasonable and proportionate” for the local authority to relax its enforcement powers.

There is no change for smaller retail shops under 280 square metres, which can continue to trade up to 24 hours.

The decision was first taken by the borough council  to relax enforcement action over Sunday opening hours by large supermarkets last April.

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter.

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