CONSTRUCTION has started on a new ground-breaking £9 million cold storage facility in Craigavon.
The first of its kind in the north, the cold storage hub and transport depot at Carn Industrial Estate is expected to create 50 jobs by 2020.
The 52,000 sq ft Carn Coldstore is due to open in the autumn of next year and the 17.5m high building will allow products to be stored from -25 to 5 degrees.
Patrick Derry, managing director of Derry Refrigerated Transport, behind the new venture, said he is heartened to see construction moving swiftly at the site.
"Carn Coldstore complements the services being delivered by Derry Refrigerated Transport, providing new and existing customers with convenient and reliable storage near at hand. It’s a substantial investment, and one we are putting to good use with advanced equipment that can deliver real-long term savings to us and our customers."
The cold storage and freezer facility will be equipped with state-of-the-art Co2 refrigeration equipment provided by Armagh company, Cross Refrigeration. The site will also feature rain water harvesting technology, helping create further energy efficiencies and reduce the business’s carbon footprint.
A number of local builders and developers, including Co Armagh-based MDK Construction are involved in the construction process.
The major investment is supported by First Trust Bank and head of business acquisitions, Michelle Harbinson said they are delighted to facilitate the growth of Mr Derry's business portfolio.
"Home to the most advanced equipment available in the sector, Carn Coldstore together with Derry Refrigerated Transport will provide businesses with much needed transport and cold storage facilities, particularly important to our expanding agri-food and retail industry," she said.
Richard Gillan, managing partner at Grant Thornton added: “With an investment of £9m and the potential to create 50 jobs in the next two years, we were delighted to support Patrick with fundraising support and advice. Carn Coldstore is a fantastic facility which will be welcomed by many in the supply chain throughout the island of Ireland and the UK."
