Ulster Unionist MLA Jo-Anne Dobson has welcomed the decision by the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Traders Association (NIIRTA) to withdraw its Judicial Review application against the proposed out of town Tesco store at Bridgewater Park in Banbridge.
Mrs Dobson said:
“I welcome the withdrawal of the legal action by the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Traders Association (NIIRTA).
As a local resident and elected representative, I fully agree with them that Banbridge has one of the best town centres in Northern Ireland with a wonderful selection of independent retailers.
I am fully aware that a balance has to be struck, but I am of the opinion that if handled properly, a new Tesco store outside Banbridge could actually attract shoppers into the town centre and benefit local retailers.
Furthermore, building the new store will provide much needed jobs in our local construction industry, and of course once built and opened, the store will provide welcome employment for local people.
I am committed to Banbridge town centre and the local traders who make it such a vibrant place to shop, and I will do all in my power to ensure that any new Tesco development both complements and enhances the shopping experience provided by Banbridge town centre.”
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