Tesco leaflet blitz

The leaflet provides information on how the scheme has changed following consultation with residents, elected representatives, community groups and statutory consultees.

In addition, it also has a freepost tear-off slip to allow local people to feedback their views on the new proposed £multi-million development which would create around 100 jobs for the local area.

Tesco say they are committed to bringing a store to Ballycastle and are constantly working with and informing the community of the proposed changes and the progress of the planning application, involving them in every step of the way.

Shane Murphy, property manager for Tesco, explained: “We have worked closely with the local community and other representatives over the past number of years and we would like to thank them for their support.

“We would also encourage them to continue to give us feedback on the proposed scheme so we can provide the best possible development. Our current proposal includes a Tesco supermarket with groceries and limited non-food ranges to the Leyland Road in a store around half the size of our Ballymoney store.

“Having listened closely to feedback, our application has undergone a number of changes. Some amendments to our original plan means that the proposed store now faces the town centre with improved pedestrian links and a clear separation and landscaped area between the store and the remaining residential development. Other revisions include separate entrances between the store and residential area and a central open space for use by local residents.”

New images and up-to-date information about the propose Leyland Road store are also available on the dedicated website, www.tescoballycastle.com which also allows residents to ‘pledge their support’ on the proposed Eco-store.

A Tesco spokesperson added: “Those who wish can also write to the Planning Service with their views. These should be addressed to Julie McMath, Divisional Planning Office, County Hall, Castlerock Road, Coleraine, BT51 3HS.

“If the current application is approved, the local economy will be given a much needed boost with more than 100 new well-paid retail jobs, as well as construction positions during the development’s build.”

Shane Murphy added: “We have been very encouraged by the huge support local residents have given to the scheme. Feedback suggests that people would like to have a Tesco in Ballycastle as many people are currently leaving the area to shop elsewhere, particularly in Coleraine and Ballymoney.

“We believe that providing a store, just 330 metres from the town centre boundary would encourage people to stay and shop locally and potentially attract customers from the wider Moyle area which could increase the footfall for other businesses in the town centre.

“We look forward to continuing to work closely with local people and elected representatives to bring our modern, convenient shopping experience to the local community,” he said.l

The leaflets were distributed on Monday.