Tesco challenged to proceed with €20m. Mayo investment

AN independent member of Mayo County Council has called on Tesco to proceed with a €20 investment in Ballina.

The supermarket chain was granted planning permission a number of years ago for a development in the Pearse Street/Market Square area of the town some time ago, but it has not proceed.

Councillor Mark Duffy said there is urgency about the siturtion because the permission is due to expire next year.

He elaborated: “The issue of town centre dereliction is one that struck a chord with me during the election campaign.

"One large section of our town that requires urgent attention is the lower Pearse Street/ Market Square area which is primarily owned by multinational retailer, Tesco Ireland.

“Since Tesco took over from Quinnsworth approximately two decades ago, little has been done to improve the structure and shopping experience on the site.

“Tesco was granted planning permission for a €20m. development which would create a better working environment for their staff, better shopping experience for the people of north Mayo and an enhancement to the area as the current buildings are not fit for purpose currently.

“I took the opportunity to contact Tesco's head of property for clarity on the development. It's my understanding that planning permission will expire in 2020 for the development, which is why I'm calling on Tesco to act in the best interest of the people in Ballina and north Mayo and proceed with the development as soon as possible.

“Tesco is a UK owned company with Irish revenue of €2.68 billion. I will continue to campaign for this development to proceed which can bring much needed employment and further commerce to the town centre of Ballina while tackling the derelict buildings issue in the town.

“I'm keen to tackle these issues immediately as we've been waiting for too long for delivery of projects such as this one in our area.”