Border Retailing Plan Approved

There's to be even more cross-border shopping available soon as building contracts worth millions of pounds are being anticipated with news of a major Co Fermanagh retail and business project.

The development of a multi-million pound retail business park in the heart of Enniskillen has been given the green light by planners.

Station Green, will be the town's first ever mixed-use commercial development and will offer modern, high specification units to the retail and business sector at an affordable price.

Located on the former site of Enniskillen's railway station on the Holyhill Road, Station Green is set to attract high-end retailers as well business people looking to move into a more modern, unique setting without leaving the town centre.

This £4-5million development is the brainchild of husband and wife team Paul and Ciara McGriskin, two property investors who are hoping to enhance and improve Enniskillen's tourism and economic potential.

"We hope to select the best mix of retailers and businesses that we think are compatible and suitable for Station Green and the interest we have received so far is very encouraging. There is also potential for creating a leisure area with restaurants and bars and maybe we could consider this as part of our phase two development," the pair told the local newspaper, the Impartial Reporter.

They also said that phase two of Station Green is even more ambitious and could see the development of a further 80,000 sq ft offering more business, retail and even residential facilities.

"Ultimately we would like to create a destination within the town to attract as many shoppers and business people as we can to this hugely under-utilised town centre site," said Mr McGriskin.

He continued, "Enniskillen has so much going for it. It just takes someone to invest in its potential and get the wheels turning and with the development of Station Green, we hope that other business people will follow suit and maximise on the potential this town has to offer.

"We have been looking to create a destination for people who want to buy quality, high-end products. We also want to attract business people and professionals who no longer want to operate out of tired, old buildings and move into a more aesthetic, affordable setting with ample car parking and share a unique work space working hand in hand with like-minded business people."

Phase one of the 60,000 sq ft development offers 13 uniquely designed units in a contemporary setting while reflecting the traditional railway architecture and is expected to open in September 2011.

As part of the redevelopment of this site will be upgraded with the existing car park substantially enhanced to tie in with the aesthetic value that Station Green has to offer.

(BMcC/GK)