The Planning Appeals Commission is understood to be close to making a decision on the controversial bid to build a 130,000 sq ft Tesco store at Bridgewater Park near Banbridge.

If approved, Tesco's total investment across NI will then pass the half-a-billion-pounds threshold.

The scheme's backers – GML Estates, Stoney Properties and British property giant Land Securities – failed to gain planning approval for the store last year but appealed the decision, forcing a public inquiry in June this year.

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The store is being opposed by many traders in Banbridge and the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association, which said it would force the closure of businesses in the area.

The supermarket forms part of the second phase of the £70 million Bridgewater Park scheme, which also includes the Outlet.

According to the developers, the entire scheme will create 2,000 jobs. A spokesman for the Planning Appeals Commission said the assessment of the arguments for and against the Tesco Xtra store was at an "advanced stage".

(BMcc/KMcA)