Asda gets Derry go ahead but four other retail plans are rejected

Environment Minister Alex Attwood has today announced decisions on five major retail applications in Derry, with an ASDA store on the Waterside getting the go ahead, but four others refused.
The Asda supermarket will be developed on the site of the current Homebase at Crescent Link on the Waterside.
Three other applications for Crescent Link, Buncrana Road and Drumahoe which need ministerial approval have been refused, while Mr Atwood is recommending to Derry City Council that the small Buncrana Road application is also refused.
Making the announcement on a visit to Derry today Alex Attwood said decisions that will define Derry’s retail future for many years to come could not be taken lightly.
In a statement, Derry Chamber of Commerce says the uncertainty over the applications has been damaging to investment in the city and region.
Chamber says now that one project has been approved, it will be possible for that scheme to make a very early start on the construction work.  Derry needs new jobs and investment.
Chamber is also calling for decisions on a further four applications which are still outstanding.