Plans for derelict leisure centre site could create 100 jobs

Plans have been submitted for a new store, café and garden centre at the site of a derelict leisure centre in Londonderry, which could create up to 100 jobs.

The operator of Home Bargains, TJ Morris, has lodged a planning application with Derry City and Strabane District Council for the redevelopment of the 2.75-acre site in the Waterside area.

The former Lisnagelvin Leisure Centre., which opened in the 1980s, has been vacant since it closed in 2015.

The site has been affected by anti-social behaviour in recent years, including incidents of arson.

Earlier this year, the council sold the derelict building and accompanying site to TJ Morris, which owns and operates the discount retail chain Home Bargains, for £2.5m.

According to an accompanying planning statement prepared by town planning consultancy agents Inaltus, the development of a new Home Bargains store would represent a major investment in Derry, with £8.5m in capital expenditure.

The proposal would create between 80 and 100 retail jobs, as well as a further 80 to 100 construction-related jobs during the development of the site.

Inaltus said the development would complement existing businesses and services in the area, while providing an opportunity to regenerate the site.

The application will be considered by Derry City and Strabane District Council's planning committee.