Planners have helped a major supermarket chain tie-up the last of its 'loose-ends' to complete the process for a showcase new store.

Asda was back at Ballymena's County Hall last week to complete paperwork surrounding last minute changes to its new Antrim store, which is already underway.

The construction contract began last September, but with just three months to the opening date at Junction One outside the town, planners had again to be consulted for permission to 'fine tune' the development.

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With 150 construction jobs already created, Asda's developer was keen there be no interruptions to the contract for the amendments.

These included a new entrance and lobby, an ATM 'pod' a recycling centre and a covered walkway.

Additonal trolley bays were also identified in the last minute applications and some 'reconfiguration' but no additional retailing facilities beyond that already permitted.

(BMcC/GK)