Grocers group appeals athenry discount food store

THE group representing independent grocers in Ireland has lodged an appeal against a decision granting planning permission for a new discount supermarket in Athenry.
RGDATA had already objected to the development earmarked for a site at Church Street. Galway County Council granted permission to JJ Brady following a material contravention vote by local councillors as the site is zoned business and enterprise.
A number of submissions both for and against the development were lodged to the planning office. Those in favour of the new food store said it was needed to bring vitality back into the town centre and to increase footfall.
Submissions opposed to the development argued that the large discount store would have an adverse retail impact within the catchment area and that it was contrary to the growth of the town.