12/12/2002

£4m investment for Connswater Shopping Centre proposed

Connswater Shopping Centre and Retail Park, which was purchased by Killtulagh Estates in October 2001 for £50 million, could benefit from a £4 million investment programme.

It has been revealed that, should the planning proposal be accepted, the multi-million pound investment package could net up to 100 new jobs for east Belfast – bringing the total number of people employed there to over 1,200. It is expected that the plans will include the development of a new state-of-the-art entrance to the shopping centre and further retail shop units.

Commenting on the deal, Mark Thallon, Colliers CRE, Chartered Surveyors, said: "This investment is significant for East Belfast and indeed the local community who will benefit hugely from the employment boost.

"The investment, which was largely due to customer demand, shows the commitment of our client and their ability to provide modern shopping centre and retail park facilities."

Since the buyout, Killtulagh Estates have already invested a £2 million on the retail park with the recent opening of five major stores – Clinton Cards, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Sanity, Shop Electric and Xtravision. There are plans for further openings, including a Clarks outlet.

Gerry Monaghan, Shopping Centre Manager, added: "We are confident that this venture will attract more high street names both to the shopping centre and retail park. This commitment has come at a good time due to unemployment levels within east Belfast.

"I must also say that both the retailers and the staff believe that this provides a good future for the east Belfast community."

(MB)

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