THE new owners of Craigavon’s Rushmere have said a £10 million investment in the shopping centre will help support 40 new jobs.
The redevelopment project, which commenced in the spring, reached a milestone this week with the unveiling of a new-look transport hub and east mall entrance, creating two new units.
The centre was acquired by Killahoey Limited in February 2023, in a deal led by DV8 founder Ian McMahon.
The £46.5 million paid for the asset was around £10m below the asking price, with the new owners opting to invest £10m upgrading the centre.
Rushmere last month reported a 20% year-on-year increase in footfall, with new tenants including Waterstones, Miniso and Subway, which opened last week.
The ongoing upgrades include new paving, outdoor lighting and enhanced road infrastructure at the retail destination.
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New dedicated spaces for small businesses and local suppliers are also being created to showcase their products.
The first of these spaces will be occupied by Portadown-based florist, Flowers by Sarah, while speciality coffee brand, Fika, has also opened its first coffee kiosk on Rushmere’s mall.
Rushmere’s internal appearance is also being completely reimagined over the next 12 months, with plans to enhance the experience for visitors by upgrading floor finishes, new ceilings and lighting, and a spacious new main entrance.
Upgrades to the centre’s toilets and baby changing facilities have already been completed.
“This announcement demonstrates our long-term commitment to strengthening Rushmere’s offering to ensure we provide our regional catchment with an outstanding shopping experience for years to come,” said centre manager Martin Walsh.
“We recognise that the retail landscape has evolved, and the everyday consumer is seeking out destinations that offer a great choice of major retailers, local suppliers, and on-site activity all under one roof.
“Through this investment, we are confident Rushmere can deliver on all fronts, and since completing several enhancements at the scheme this year, we have already recorded a significant uplift in visitor footfall.”
