The expected 50 new jobs in prospect as a major investment at Connswater Shopping Centre in east Belfast gets underway, have been roundly welcomed.

East Belfast MLA and Belfast City Councillor, Robin Newton said they will contribute to the overall viability of the centre and even contribute to increased success - and urged that the appropriate training opportunities are utilised.

He said: "I would urge the new businesses to take up some of the opportunities that the Department of Employment and Learning offer.

"These schemes both reduce their training costs and also offer employment to local people at the same time," he counselled.

The £6m investment - just announced - will result in a 40,000 sq ft extension, which is expected to be completed by Christmas - with existing retailers continuing to trade during the refurbishment.

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After its completion, tenants will occupy four self-contained retail units and a new food court.

Killultagh Estates Ltd is investing in the major extension and refurbishment programme

The main entrance will be transformed into a modern glass structure that will provide a prominent modern entrance feature for the rejuvenated Connswater.

An additional deck has already been added to the car park, creating a total of 850 free customer car parking spaces, including family friendly, disabled and taxi pick-up spaces adjacent to the shopping centre

Connswater Shopping Centre Manager, Gerry Monaghan commented: "The centre is undergoing a refurbishment programme to ensure our customers get the best service and thoroughly enjoy their shopping experience.

"Our customers are our number one priority and we hope that the upgrade of facilities provided by Connswater's refurbishment, our opening times and our family friendly facilities will retain the great customer base Connswater already has and also attract additional customers," he said.

Meanwhile, Tanya McKeown, from Colliers CRE, the managing agents for Connswater, said it would be "transformed into a high quality shopping destination with an improved retail and food offer".

“We are committed to working with Killultagh Estates Ltd to develop Connswater and retain its position as the leading local shopping centre.

"The extensive catchment population and high-quality customer profile are just two factors which have allowed Connswater to attract an excellent mix of major high street retailers and food brands."

(BMcC)