The Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) has said it is concerned about local construction jobs after retailer Tesco announced it has scrapped plans to open a new store in Armagh, Northern Ireland.

Newry & Armagh Ulster Unionist MLA, Danny Kennedy, said development work has already started on the site and he is concerned about the immediate loss of construction jobs.

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Mr Kennedy added: "This is in addition to the wider economic impact on the Armagh area although I am aware of media speculation that the store may be sold to a competitor.

"It is obviously essential that any new retail store on the site should enhance the shopping experience in Armagh and work as a magnet to bring people into the city and increase footfall and trade in the many quality businesses which populate the city centre."

(CD/JP)