Mid-Ulster is set for a construction bonanza with Cookstown in line for a boost with two major retail and residential developments planned for the town centre.

The former Tesco supermarket off the Orritor Road is to be transformed into a mixed development to include shops and new homes and - also on the Orritor Road - another proposal is set to bring YUPPIE-style luxury apartments, again alongside shopping and office space.

Cookstown District Council recommended approval of the plans for both schemes at their monthly meeting of Cookstown which was told that the local firm, Rea Developments is behind both projects,.

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It is proposed that the development at the old Tesco store would include nine retail units comprising a gross floorspace 2,562 square metres.

There are further plans for 38 apartments at the site as well as underground parking.

The former Tesco shop and two residential units would be demolished to make way for the development.

The second project at Orritor Road will replace the existing sales buildings at 21-23 Orritor Road, which was the former old site of RA Patricks and in its place will be a development of exclusive apartments including 12 'penthouses'.

It is proposed that the building would also include a further 30 apartments in addition to retail and office space.

And it will be complimented by associated basement and forecourt car parking facilities as well as regulated service areas.

The luxury complex would be completed with a fitness suite and health club.

The proposed developments are in addition to the planned Broadfields retail Park in the same area and a new bid for the Westland Road South area of Cookstown.

The Henderson Spar group will open the new store on a vacant side opposite the town's cemetery.

(BMcC/GK)