30 jobs created as 'greener' store officially opened

Environment Minister Edwin Poots opened the store on the Hillsborough Road on Tuesday.

The old building was demolished in May and has undergone an extensive redevelopment, introducing several eco-friendly features to lower the store's carbon footprint and protect the surrounding environment.

The new larger store and forecourt will create an additional 30 jobs.

Speaking at the opening, Mr Poots said: "This is an innovative and forward thinking approach to the redevelopment of this site.

"It is clear that the new site was designed to maximise environmental benefits such as the installation of the Sedum roof which improves thermal insulation and offers energy savings in summer and winter. The rainwater harvesting system is also a sensible example of putting a natural resource to good use as the water run-off from the fuel canopy will supply the toilet facilities and jet wash.

"I also welcome the commitment of John Dorys, which has taken one of the retail units, to using 90% biodegradable packing and recycling all cardboard."

The new store incorporates a mature oak tree as a focal point on the site, and the use of Thermo wood cladding to help it blend in with the surrounding Lagan Valley Regional Park.

Paul Patterson, manager of the new store, said: "The overall project has been a great success and this new style of eco-store will act as a great benchmark for other stores in the future.

"The new eco features allow the store to reduce its carbon footprint, preserve the surrounding environment and be self-sufficient. Moreover, I am sure people will agree that the final design is also aesthetically pleasing to the surrounding neighbourhood.

"In addition, the increased size of the forecourt and premises will enable us to offer the local community a wider choice of services. Our team, which has now increased from eight staff to 38, remains committed to delivering value-for-money and convenient produce, with an outstanding level of customer service."

The new store, will now measure 4000 sq ft, complete with two additional on-site retail units measuring 1000 sq ft each. It was redeveloped as part of the Henderson Group's 10m investment in the upgrade and extension of its estate.