Retail giant plans new store at Derry ‘Budget’ site

A major retail chain is planning to open a new store at a large unit in Derry which has been vacant for years.

Bargains chain want to open a new outlet at the former ‘Budget’ building at the junction of Buncrana Road and Strand Road.

The large unit has been empty since the Budget DIY store closed in 2006 with the loss of 30 jobs.

A separate building on the retail park is currently let to Harry Corry Ltd.

Xtravision had rented another building on the site for many years but it was also closed in recent times.

The local retail park was put up for sale last year and it is understood that a sale was recently agreed.

TJ Morris Ltd, the company which owns the Home Bargains chain, has applied for planning permission to open a new store on the site.

The proposal would see altercations to the former ‘Budget’ store and the change of use at the building to allow for the sale of ‘convenience and comparison’ goods.

The plan would also see the opening of a garden centre within the building.

TJ Morris Ltd also wants to demolish the building which was previously occupied by Xtravision. Home Bargains stores sell a wide range of products, from health and beauty products to household goods, food and toys

A planning application has lodged with Derry City and Strabane District Council.

It will now go through the planning system before local councillors make a decision on whether to grant permission for the new store.

When contacted TJ Morris Ltd said they currently had no comment to make in relation to their plans in Derry..

The company has almost 400 Home Bargains stores throughout Britain and Northern Ireland. .