GROCERY giant Sainsbury's has pulled plans for a new store in Co Down, blaming red tape for its decision.
The retailer said the "length of time the scheme has taken in the planning system" among other factors meant that the project was no longer viable - although the plans were approved in May.
It had hoped to develop the site of the former Rolls-Royce factory in Dundonald.
The development on Upper Newtownards Road was to include a 100,000 sq ft foodstore and filling station as well as more than 40,000 sq ft of industrial units and 47,000 sq ft of storage and distribution units.
Sainsbury's, which already has 13 outlets in Northern Ireland, said the decision had been taken following "long and careful consideration".
The company's development manager for Northern Ireland, Andrew Sanderson, said: "This is not a decision we have taken lightly but regrettably a combination of factors including the current economic climate, trading conditions and length of time the scheme has taken in the planning system mean that this site is no longer a viable option for a Sainsbury's store. "We're particularly disappointed because of the wonderful support we received from residents of Dundonald, community groups and elected representatives through the community consultation and planning application process over the last two years. "We'd like to offer everyone our sincere thanks." "The Dundonald site does however remain suitable for development and Sainsbury's would like to wish the developer LagMar good luck and every future success for the site."