A multi-million pound investment is being planned at Orangefield in Armagh, which would see new shops, filling station, fast food takeaway and industrial units all being built.
The works would involve the demolition of the existing Today’s Local shop, as well as a neighbouring house and industrial unit.
But a state-of-the-art mixed-use development would transform the area, representing a huge boost to the local economy and creating multiple jobs.
The plans are being worked up and will be put on show at a public information event in Armagh next month.
At this stage a pre-application notice has been lodged with Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.
This is required given the substantial scale of the development being proposed.
The feedback from the public information event – as well as from neighbours, who will also be notified next month – will be looked at and used to help shape final proposals which would then be submitted seeking full planning approval.
The pre-application has come in the name of Mark Shilliday.
The expansive site runs from the rear of the MOT Centre, with the exact location described in papers as “lands adjacent and to and east of 10 Ballyhonemore Road, Armagh”.
The development site stretches to over 32,000 sq ft.
The plans at this stage are for a major mixed-use development after various properties – including the existing shop – are demolished.
If successful, the intention is for a new filling station style enterprise that would comprise a “new neighbourhood shop”, together with petrol forecourt, covered by a canopy.
There would also be three new shops – including a hot food takeaway – built within the site.
And on top of all that, it is intended to construct seven of what are being described as “light industrial/trade counter units” too.
The development would also include car parking to facilitate customers, staff and visitors, with a proposed new access on to the Ballynahonemore Road.
Neighbours living within 100 metres of the site will be notified with a leaflet drop intended in the coming weeks. And councillors will be informed when the new ABC Council make-up is known after the election count is complete.
The proposals will represent a huge investment in the east of the city and it is expected that many jobs would be created, both during construction and upon completion when units – retail and industrial – are up and running.
