The company behind the former Armagh Observer newspaper is seeking approval for a new outlet in the city – this time scooping chips instead of news!
Rather than selling papers with the ‘news of the day’ they could soon be used to wrap up the ‘catch of the day’.
From Observer to Cod-server, traditional fish and chips might well be on the menu at the old offices at Upper English Street.
And for those who think this is hake – sorry fake – news think again!
For an application – in the name of Dungannon-based Observer Newspapers NI Ltd – has been submitted to Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council for consideration.
The paper had been published for close to nine decades but the Mallon family-owned enterprise closed 11 titles in the same week.
The Armagh office – which have been vacant ever since – is next door to the recently-opened entertainment and gaming centre.
The application would see the opening of a fast food outlet at ground floor level. It would have a service area and counter walking in off the street with kitchen area to the rear and storage. An extractor fan system will be in place to carry odours out the rear of the premises.
It is now three years since the Armagh Observer newspaper ceased to be, the closure coming over the Easter period in 2017.
A spokesperson for the company said at the time: “The newspaper industry has been subject to a steady decline in advertising and readership over recent years. In these challenging circumstances Observer Newspapers has struggled to sustain long-term sustainability.
“We regret that this has led to a decision to cease publication.”
Now the building which was home to the Armagh Observer – through an application lodged by the company which published it – could be in use once again.
The proposals will be advertised this week and a decision in due course. It will be up to council to decide whether or not to ‘pas-tie’ the plans!
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