FULL plans have now been submitted for a £10 million garden centre at The Junction retail park in Antrim.
Up to 150 jobs are expected to be created by the 110,000 sq ft Dobbies retail venture, which is slated for a Spring 2023 opening.
The proposal was originally announced in May 2021, but the retailer has now progressed to lodging a full planning application.
Alongside an outdoor garden centre, the proposal provides for an indoor plant area; a pet and bird care department; food hall; children’s soft play area; and a new restaurant and café.
Alastair Coulson, managing director of Lotus Property, which bought the retail scheme in 2016, said it represent one of the most significant retail deals for Northern Ireland in recent years.
Footwear specialist Skechers is the latest retailer to sign up for a unit at The Junction. Canadian coffee chain, Tim Hortons is expected to open a new drive-thru outlet early next year.
Meanwhile, Economy Minister Gordon Lyon. Who recently visited the Antrim site to site to examine the plans, said: “These investments are vital in continuing our economic recovery from the pandemic and bring much welcomed job opportunities.”
