Site sale agreed. Inset: CGI of new build Lidl concept store under construction currently in Coleraine.
Ballymena's retail scene continues in its transformation. Plans appear to be wheeling forward for a spanking new, larger-than-life Lidl store, promising to bring more bargains and perhaps a few of those famous middle aisle oddities to town.
Love Ballymena understands that Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has agreed the sale of three acres of land with Lidl Northern Ireland for the new supermarket.
Located just off the Ecos roundabout on the Broughshane Road, the local authority brought the land to market in the Spring of this year with an asking price of £1.2 million pounds.
Members are set to discuss the land sale behind closed doors at a meeting of council in The Braid this evening (Monday 14 October).
The Braid, Ballymena
While plans are at an early stage and no official details have yet to be released, the discount supermarket chain has been investing substantially in recent times as part of the company’s development programme which involves the upgrade of many of its existing stores, as well as the development of new stores.
Work is presently moving forward for new build stores in both Carrickfergus and Coleraine, with the former including a seated cafe and drive through.
CGI of new build Lidl concept store under construction currently in Coleraine.
In challenging financial times and with the cost of food soaring over the last few years, it is no surprise that Lidl Northern Ireland is the province’s fastest growing supermarket.
Earlier this year, Lidl Northern Ireland marked its 25th anniversary in the province and announced it pumped a record £360m into the local economy in 2023 and supported almost 6,900 jobs, including 1,300 direct employees. The retailer also pledged an additional £150 million for new store expansion as part of a commitment to grow its network to 50 stores by the end of the decade.
Lidl’s latest ‘concept’ store design includes high sustainability standards and industry-leading energy efficiency systems. The new stores are built purposefully to enhance the shopping experience with wider aisles and modern aesthetics. Recently approved stores also include electric vehicle charging points on site.
News of the planned new store comes as construction continues at pace on a new 26,100 sqft. Primark store at the Fairhill Shopping Centre, and a 39,160 sqft. Home Bargains retail outlet and garden centre on Queen Street.
Meanwhile, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has brought a second plot of land to market on Kernohan’s Lane, just off St Patrick’s Link Road in Ballymena.
The one acre site adjoining the ECOS Visitor and Conference Centre is for sale for an undisclosed sum by property agents OKT.