Business

Major regeneration proposals unveiled for Dungannon

CGI of the proposed mixed-use development on Ann Street in Dungannon
CGI of the proposed mixed-use development on Ann Street in Dungannon

PROPOSALS have been unveiled to develop vacant land in Ann Street in Dungannon in what will be a £10 million investment in the area.

Moorefield Group set out its proposals at a Council meeting to develop an exciting mixed-use scheme on a site that has lain vacant for more than 30 years.

And the developer will shortly be consulting with the public on these plans ahead of submitting a planning application later this year.

The development includes proposals to build a new hotel, major retail and office space on the site which is seen as a key site for generating economic development in the town.

Eighty construction jobs are expected to be created over a three-to-five-year period, injecting £10 million into the local economy, if the project gets the green light.

Tony Wan for Moorefield said: “We're thrilled to be able to show our plans to develop this site which will bring new hospitality and retail choices to Dungannon.

"The addition of new retailers and a hotel operator will bring added vibrancy and shoppers to the town centre and will also mean jobs for local people if the site gets the green light.

“Shortly there will be a formal period of consultation with the local community, and we are keen to reach out and hear back from people living in the area.

“If granted planning permission, we would begin work immediately, creating many construction jobs during the building phase of the project as well as permanent hospitality and retail jobs when complete. The investment will also mean a huge boost for the local economy."

Speaking after the preferred bidder briefed councillors on the proposals, Mid-Ulster District Council chair Sean McPeake said: “The land at Ann Street site has long been considered a strategic development opportunity site and an important link between the west of the town and the main retail core.

“We are moving ever closer to seeing its transformation from derelict land into a thriving public space for commercial and social use and there is no doubt Moorefield’s plans will provide a real economic boost to Dungannon.

“I look forward to the signing of the contract and to the project moving into the formal planning stages”.