Mid Ulster SDLP councillor calls for 'full and robust' retail impact assessment into plans for a proposed Lidl store
A Mid Ulster councillor is calling for a “full and robust” retail impact assessment to be carried out in relation to the proposed Lidl store in Coalisland.
SDLP representative Malachy Quinn said he recognises that many local people may welcome the prospect of greater choice and potentially lower prices, but warned that any major retail development must be properly assessed for its wider impact on existing local businesses and the town centre.
“Coalisland needs investment, jobs and opportunities, and I fully understand why many people would welcome the possibility of Lidl coming to the town,” he said in a statement. “However, we also have long-standing local businesses who have served this community for years.
"Shops such as Springisland, Newell Stores, Herrons, the two Spar shops, local chemists and many others employ local people, support local families and are part of the fabric of Coalisland.
“That is why I have written to the Head of Planning to request that any application is accompanied by a full and robust Retail Impact Assessment.
“This assessment must look properly at the impact on existing local retailers, convenience shops, pharmacies, Coalisland town centre, traffic, parking, pedestrian access, linked trips and the overall vitality and viability of the town.
“This should not be about being for or against one particular shop. It should be about making sure that any development works for Coalisland as a whole.
“Investment is welcome, but it has to be the right investment, in the right place, with proper consideration given to the businesses and workers already rooted here.”
Councillor Quinn added that he would also be seeking clarity on whether independent retail planning advice will be used to assess the impact of the proposal.
He added: “It is important that any assessment is not simply accepted at face value. The assumptions around trade draw, turnover impact and effects on local businesses need to be properly scrutinised.
“Coalisland has a strong business community, from supermarkets and convenience stores to chemists and smaller independent traders. They all play a part in keeping the town centre alive, and they deserve to be fully considered as part of this process.”
If approved, it is expected the new development would create scores of local jobs, both during construction and when its opened.