Irish developer behind Ballymena services scheme
Irish developer John Kelly is behind a €2 million Ballymena roadside services scheme.
The project at 318 Frosses Road will include a purpose-built road services area along the new A26 dual carriageway, which is undergoing a €75 million improvement scheme.
The A26 is used by some 18,000 vehicles each day.
Mr Kelly, a high-profile investor from Co Wicklow, is providing the financial backing for the project, which will see and an international fuel and coffee brand anchoring the site.
Architects Clarman have designed the scheme, which is set to commence works in May 2016, taking 20 weeks to complete.
A spokesperson for the project, Michael McNamee, told Ireland’s Forecourt & Convenience Retailer that recruitment for the site would begin some four to six weeks before work begins.
“We’re expecting a high volume of applications,” he said. “We’re currently in the process of signing-off the legal end of the deal with some major brands, and the developer John Kelly has been very selective in working with quality providers. It’s still very early days, but we think this is great news for the area.”
The site will cater for both HGV drivers and motorists, employing some 22 to 28 full-time and part-time staff in the long term.
“Clarman architects are also looking to involve local contractors in the project, so that will add to the employment benefit to the area,” Michael added.
The news comes within days of a major jobs rally for Ballymena town, which is on the cusp of losing two major employers, with the imminent closure of both the Gallagher and Michelin plants.
Almost 2,000 people will lose their job when both plants close within the next two years.
On Saturday February 6, hundreds gathered in Ballymena calling for investment to bring employment to the town.
Ballymena born Hollywood star Liam Neeson gave his backing to the campaign. A message from the Taken actor was played to the crowd on a big screen during the rally.
