Craigavon objectors mount legal challenge to store

A NEW legal challenge has been mounted in opposition to the proposed John Lewis store at Sprucefield.

Objectors from Central Craigavon Ltd and Bow Street Mall forced an adjournment of the public inquiry into the proposed expansion at the rival shopping complex. The inquiry was adjourned on Friday without hearing any of the evidence.

Central Craigavon Ltd had been instrumental in instigating legal proceedings opposing plans for the 500,000 square foot development.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Rival traders claim the Department of Environment should have placed newspaper adverts about the scheme.

The department is to readvertise part of the planning application next month. It’s understood the inquiry will resume in October

Glyn Roberts, Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association chief executive, said: "We welcome the inquiry and all sides get their day in court and to have their say."

He added: "Our preference would've been for a town centre location but I think a decision needs to be made and the traders, and John Lewis need closure.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The owners of the retail centre have been trying to get approval for the store since 2004. Planning permission was granted at first, only to be overturned following a legal challenge by other traders.

They object to the building of a large-scale retail project which they said could damage town-centre shopping.

Ironically Central Craigavon Ltd represents Rushmere shopping centre, which many traders in Lurgan town centre regard as an out of town shopping centre.

The central area was recently designated a town centre by planners - much to the dismay of Lurgan's business community.