A company headed by members of a major Irish property dynasty has announced plans to rebuild Downpatrick’s flood damaged Asda store.
Barry Comer, who is managing director of Comer Group Ireland, has proposed a completely new build development, which would add a fuel forecourt to Ballyduggan Retail Park.
It comes just weeks after a report determined the supermarket was too dangerous to reopen to the public.
Asda’s store on Ballydugan Road has been closed since severe flooding hit the Co Down town on November 1.
A temporary outlet has since reopened in the car park at next door.
The planning process has now commenced for a new 100,000 sq ft development at the site.
Alongside a new supermarket, petrol filling station, and shop, three additional retail units are proposed, along with car parking and a service yard.
A proposal of application notice (PAN) has been submitted by Celpark Limited.
Barry Comer is a director of Celpark, alongside his father Luke, who is domiciled in Monaco.
Originally from Co Galway, Luke and his younger brother Brian relocated to London in the 1980s, where they went on to build a property empire.
The Comer Group property portfolio is spread across dozens of sites in Ireland, Britain and mainland Europe.
Barry Comer said that subject to planning permission, building work could begin Ballydugan Retail Park as soon as October 2024, with the new supermarket potentially opening in the autumn of 2025.
Well known in GAA circles, playing club football in Meath and for London, Mr Comer added: “The next twelve weeks will be crucially important in the planning process, as the outcome of community engagement with local residents and liaison with stakeholders will be pivotal in our plans to redevelop Ballydugan Retail Park and give the local and wider community a landmark shopping destination.”
A spokesperson for Asda said: “In the months since the closure of our Downpatrick store as a result of the devastating flooding we’ve seen first-hand how much of a key role Asda plays in the local community.
“Whilst we are pleased that the temporary store is now up and running, a long-term solution is required.
“That’s why we’re excited to embark on the first stage of the planning process for a new permanent store which will bring the full range of Asda services back to Downpatrick, including provision for a new fuel station attached to the store.”
