Watch: Major boost for Rushmere Shopping Centre as construction starts on new 2,478m² Lidl store

Construction work has officially started on a £9 million Lidl supermarket next to Rushmere Shopping Centre in Craigavon, marking a major investment in the area and the regeneration of an underused part of the retail hub.

The new store is being built on a site formerly occupied by a Sainsbury’s petrol filling station and car wash, which is being demolished to make way for the development.

When plans were approved by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Council last July, councillors were told the project would support around 200 construction jobs over a six-month build period. Once operational, the store is expected to create approximately 40 full-time and part-time roles, with some staff transferring from other Lidl locations.

The 2,478m² supermarket will feature a mono-pitched roof and modern materials, including white render, metallic silver panelling and extensive glazing. Sustainability measures form a key part of the design, with solar panels to be installed on the roof alongside electric vehicle charging points in the car park.

The development includes 127 car parking spaces, dedicated service yards, cycle facilities and landscaping works. Changes will also be made to the road layout on Central Way, including modifications to the left slip lane for entry and the removal of the existing egress lane.

Planning officials previously said the development would significantly improve the visual appearance of the site while increasing footfall to Rushmere Shopping Centre.

The planning application was unanimously approved by the council’s planning committee, with Lidl indicating a construction period of around 26 weeks. The store is expected to open later this year.

The new supermarket will further strengthen Rushmere’s retail offering and is anticipated to attract increased visitor numbers to the wider Craigavon area.