Is Primark on the way to Coleraine?

Sources in the local business community say that there are strong indications that the retailer could be looking at premises in the town.

It is understood that the former JJB Sports complex at Hanover Place is the central area being checked out by Primark.

There has long been a feeling that a move by Primark into Coleraine town centre would provide a tremendous boost to the local economy.

Many shoppers are known to by-pass Coleraine in favour of Ballymena or Derry simply because those towns can boast a branch of the popular store.

Last year, a Facebook campaign harnessed the growing calls for Primark to make a base in Coleraine.

In recent times, posts on the Facebook page have included comments like: “Now that Peacocks is sadly gone, Primark would be mad not to move in. More jobs for the town and lots of customers (especially from the university - not just the students either!).”

Another comment read: “Yes, bring Primark. The town is dying on its feet.”

And a third wrote: “I LOVE Primark! Always travelling to L’Derry to its Primark because it’s my favourite. I think it’s about time we had one in Coleraine.”

The Coleraine Times contacted Primark’s head office in London for a comment on the move but they weren’t prepared to say anything at this stage.