Alliance Councillor David Armitage has led the way in securing a new Lidl store for Connswater shopping centre in East Belfast.
Taking on the campaign on behalf of local residents and supporter groups, the local Councillor has played a key role in challenging perceptions and changing minds on the issue.
Councillor David Armitage said: “I’m delighted this decision will be reversed and we will finally see Lidl take up residence in Connswater Shopping Centre over the next few years – a move that will bring added security for traders and shoppers in the area.
“Believing in the positives of this application from the outset, in recent weeks I’ve recused my vote on the planning committee in order to meet, listen to and promote the views of local people in a wider forum.
“I’m pleased to have challenged perceptions on this key East Belfast issue, after the centre suffered blow and blow in recent years.
“With Lidl at the helm of Connswater, the next step will be to grow and promote the centre as a key shopping destination in the area and, as this latest report makes clear, I look forward to my colleagues on the planning committee setting the wheels in motion at our next meeting.”