ASDA builds new superstore in Downpatrick

Asda confirms commitment to Downpatrick with plans for new store

The new Asda, which will be located at its former site in Ballydugan Retail Park, will replace the temporary, smaller store which has been operating successfully since January 2024. A cornerstone of the local retail scene for over 20 years, the original Asda store was irreparably damaged by the storms of November 2023.

While the temporary store has acted as a lifeline for the local community, confirmation of the £multi-million development has been widely welcomed by Asda colleagues in Downpatrick who were the first to be updated on plans by Senior Director for NI, Michael McFadden.

“This marks another important milestone for our business in Downpatrick and we are thrilled to be able to share this great news with our colleagues, our customers, local politicians, stakeholders and other retailers,” said Michael.

“The hard work now begins to develop our new, modern superstore which will be 20% bigger than the original store, offering significantly more floor space and scope. It also includes a new Petrol Filling Station and upgraded office and colleague space, adding value for all.”

In addition to developing the new Asda superstore, the project will see the demolition of the existing Asda building and extensive investment in the necessary groundworks programme which includes the piling design.  Celpark’s contractors will work considerately and cause as little disruption as possible during this complex rebuild.

Highlighting the need for understanding, Michael McFadden said:

“We hope to celebrate our opening in spring 2027 and will continue to operate from our temporary store throughout the rebuild process. To further support customers, we also plan to transition operations overnight to the new store, ensuring continuity of trade throughout. We know there may be challenges along the way and hope all who work and shop with us will bear with the developers as they progress this complex but vitally important project.”

Thanking colleagues for their hard work and resilience Michael added,

“This is the news we’ve long awaited. We’re not simply ‘replacing’, we are ‘upgrading’ to a flagship standard that will serve this community for decades to come. We’ve navigated the challenges of the last few years and are now on the pathway to our fantastic new home.”

A Celpark spokesperson said:

“We are delighted with the positive progress made to date and would like to thank representatives in Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, and all the local stakeholders who have made this possible. This significant project will establish a landmark shopping destination for both Downpatrick and the wider area and will bring much needed investment and footfall to the town. Our focus now is on working with our Asda colleagues and local stakeholders to make this a smooth transition.”