A job's boost from a multi-million development in the rural town of Antrim has been welcomed.

The £5 million investment, which has created a major extension onto the Castle Centre and the re-branding of the original outlet as Castle Mall, has seen significant numbers of new job opportunities created.

The Mayor of Antrim, Councillor Adrian Cochrane-Watson said: "Antrim is certainly experiencing a retailing renaissance and the service sector continues to be a substantial benefactor of the borough's economy, and the largest employer.

"I am delighted that this expansion has led to more job opportunities becoming available within the town centre and look forward to watching Castle Mall continue to expand in this evolving and ongoing process."

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Linda Black, from Centenary Asset Management, Castle Mall's landlord, said: "It is fantastic to see the extension finished and open for business.

"The changes at the centre highlight the evolving face of shopping in Antrim town and we hope that the people of Antrim are pleased with the result.

"We are delighted to welcome onboard Woolworths and 02 and hope that this additional offering along with our existing traders encourages local people and beyond to shop with us," she said.

Designed by Belfast based architect WDR & RT Taggart and constructed by local contractor McCombe Brothers (Antrim) Ltd, the development, which totals 28,000 sq ft brings to the town a new Woolworths store of 10,000 sq ft along with a further nine shop units.

Commenting on opening for business, Liz Galloway, Store Manager, from Woolworths said: "The team is delighted to have opened the doors and welcomed the community inside the new store."

Castle Mall will be celebrating 27 years of trading in Antrim in June this year.

(BMcC)