Plans for what is set to become Northern Ireland’s largest Lidl store have moved forward, with the German discount supermarket chain submitting a Proposal of Application Notice (PAN) to Mid and East Antrim Borough Council in recent days.
The proposed development, located just off the Ecos roundabout on Broughshane Road in Ballymena, signals a significant investment in the town’s evolving retail landscape.
First revealed by Love Ballymena last year, the council agreed to sell three acres of land to Lidl for the new store. The decision was made behind closed doors during a council meeting at The Braid on Monday, 14 October 2024.
Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Bréanainn Lyness
Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Bréanainn Lyness has welcomed the plans saying:
"As your Deputy Mayor, I am proud to have proposed the sale of this land for the development of a new Lidl store in Ballymena.
“This project offers significant benefits for the community, providing affordable shopping while also creating jobs during construction and operation. In addition to boosting our local economy.
“This Lidl’s presence will enhance the town’s retail appeal, attracting more shoppers and supporting nearby businesses. This development is a positive step forward, improving access to essentials while fostering economic growth in Ballymena."
The plot of land proposed as site of new Lidl store in Ballymena
The land, brought to market by the council in Spring 2024 with an asking price of £1.2 million, has now been earmarked for the retail giant, though the final sale price remains undisclosed.
While the plans are still in their infancy, with no official details yet released, the submission of the PAN marks a key step in Lidl’s ambitious expansion strategy across Northern Ireland. The discount supermarket has been pouring significant resources into its development programme, which includes upgrading existing stores and constructing new ones to meet growing demand.
Lidl’s Growing Footprint in Northern Ireland
Lidl Northern Ireland celebrated its 25th anniversary in the province in 2024, a milestone accompanied by the announcement of a record-breaking £360 million contribution to the local economy in 2023.
The retailer also supported nearly 6,900 jobs, including 1,300 direct employees, underscoring its role as a major economic driver. As part of its long-term vision, Lidl has pledged an additional £150 million to expand its network to 50 stores by the end of the decade.
The retailer’s growth comes at a time when households across Northern Ireland are grappling with rising food costs and challenging financial conditions. Lidl Northern Ireland has capitalised on this climate, establishing itself as the province’s fastest-growing supermarket. Its commitment to offering affordable prices has resonated with consumers, fuelling demand for new locations and larger stores - like the one proposed in Ballymena.
Lidl Coleraine
Earlier this year, Lidl opened a new store at Riverside Retail Park in Coleraine, which, at 2,514 square metres, was hailed as the largest Lidl store in Northern Ireland to date. Costing £9 million, the Coleraine outlet showcased the retailer’s latest “concept” store design, featuring wider aisles, modern aesthetics, and high sustainability standards.
However, the Ballymena proposal is set to eclipse it, with a planned footprint of 2,559 square metres, making it the largest Lidl store in the province if approved.
A Sustainable Shopping Experience
Lidl’s latest store designs prioritise sustainability and innovation. The Ballymena proposal is expected to incorporate industry-leading energy efficiency systems, aligning with the company’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact.
Recent stores approved elsewhere have also included electric vehicle charging points, a feature likely to be included in Ballymena to cater to the growing number of EV drivers. These enhancements are part of Lidl’s broader effort to improve the shopping experience while meeting modern environmental expectations.
Ahead of submitting a full planning application, Lidl is inviting the public to share their views on the Ballymena proposal. A consultation drop-in event is scheduled for Thursday, 1 May 2025, from 4:30pm to 6:30pm at the Ecos Centre on Kernohan’s Lane.
Preliminary drawings of the proposed store will be on display, and members of the project team will be available to answer questions and gather feedback.
Residents and businesses within 100 metres of the site boundary will receive a letter detailing the proposal and event at least seven days in advance, ensuring the community has ample opportunity to engage with the plans.
Ballymena’s Retail Renaissance
The Lidl development is just one piece of Ballymena’s ongoing retail transformation. The town is seeing a surge in investment, with new stores and residential projects reshaping its commercial and social fabric.
Construction is well underway on a 39,160 square foot Home Bargains store in the Queen Street area, complete with a café and garden centre. The discount retailer is expected to open its doors in time for the summer, adding another major player to the town’s retail mix.
Meanwhile, a new 26,100 square foot Primark store is taking shape at the Fairhill Shopping Centre. The fashion retailer is on track to welcome customers in early September 2025, further boosting Ballymena’s appeal as a shopping destination.
Alongside these developments, the rise of town centre living is breathing new life into the area, creating a vibrant blend of residential and commercial spaces.
Looking Ahead
As Lidl advances its plans for Ballymena, the proposed store promises to bring jobs, affordable shopping, and modern facilities to the town. While the project awaits full planning approval, the retailer’s track record suggests it could become a cornerstone of the local economy.
With public consultation on the horizon, residents will soon have their say in shaping this latest chapter in Ballymena’s growth.