A £40m plan to expand Rushmere Shopping Centre in Craigavon has been approved by the local council.

The east side of the complex will be developed to include almost 14,000 square metres of extra retail space, a two tier car park and a five screen cinema.

Work on the scheme is expected to be completed by 2012.

When granting the planning permission for the project, Craigavon Borough Council reiterated directs calls from the architects behind the scheme to ensure local construction firms are contracted to undertake the work.

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Councillor Stephen Mourtray said the authority must do all it can to "fast-track" the development.

The proposals are sure to be welcomed boost for the local construction industry, amid a downturn in activity.

Despite this, concerns have been raised over the affect the complex's expansion could have on nearby residents.

Councillor George Savage said: "This new development will bring an influx of people into the borough. I hope the development will try to adhere to the concerns of local residents."

Developer, Central Craigavon Ltd, said: "This project will provide the local community with much needed additional social amenities and will contribute significantly to the economy of the Craigavon area and beyond."

(PR/JM)