Two Sinn Féin assembly members have welcomed a public inquiry into plans for a John Lewis site in Northern Ireland.

West Belfast and Lagan Valley MLAs Jennifer McCann and Paul Butler said the proposed development at Sprucefield would create a much needed boost during the economic recession.

"We would welcome that this proposal has been moved on and that it has now gone to a public inquiry. The application for the John Lewis store is now over four years old," said Ms McCann.

"In the currently economic downturn here is prime retail outlet which is being delayed time and time again.

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"What we are seeing is that the developers wish to put everything out in the open and openly field any concerns that may still exist around the development," said the MLA.

Mr Butler said the development would bring significant benefits to west Belfast and in particular the Colin area, which suffers from high levels of unemployment.

"Over 2,000 job opportunities, both in construction and retail services would be made available through this development going ahead," suggested Mr Butler.

In the interim, Mr Bulter has called for an upgrade of public transport links between Belfast and Lisburn, describing the current provision as "inadequate".

"If John Lewis were eventually to get go ahead there would be a definite need to upgrade these services to allow for greater access for employees and customer in west Belfast and further afield using the department store," he added.

(PR/JM)