Former Erin Foods Site, Thurles, Set for Redevelopment with Multimillion Investment

Deputy Michael Lowry has confirmed that Lidl Ireland have agreed contracts with the owner of the former Erin foods site for the purchase of a 2.5 acre section of this prime property.

Lidl group architects Clarman have completed extensive pre planning consultations with Tipperary County council and are currently in the process of lodging a formal planning application.

The proposed planning application will include the demolition and removal of all existing buildings along with clearance of the entire 8.5 acre site. Lidl intend constructing a modern new store of approx. 22,000 sq. ft with associated car parking to be serviced by means of a new entrance.

The project will take 2 years to complete and Lidl have committed where possible to use local material and trades suppliers.

The project will comprise 3 phases with:
Phase 1 of the project being the demolition of the existing buildings and full site clearance. This in itself is a very substantial contract requiring specialist contractors. It involves the removal of huge
quantities of asbestos. This is a hazardous waste. There are stringent regulations governing its removal and disposal. I have been assured by Lidl that this sensitive material will be handled in full compliance with International standards.

Phase 2 will involve the construction of a new site entrance. The site will be accessed by means of a proposed new roadway which will form the initial phase of the inner relief road for Thurles linking Slievenamon Road to the Mill Road. Also to be included as part of the development works are
significant improvements to the River walkway at the rear of the site.

Phase 3 is construction of the new state of the art retail store.

The Lidl decision to locate a new store on the Erin Foods site enables the entire site to be redeveloped. The very substantial investment by Lidl in their new store including infrastructure such as roadways, car parking, water, waste water, power supply and high end IT capability makes the
remainder of the site extremely attractive to other potential investors. It creates an exciting opportunity to revitalise a prime site which has been dormant for years.

Deputy Lowry has stated that he has already been in contact with the IDA and Enterprise Ireland to highlight the enormous potential and attractiveness of the remaining 6 acres to companies in need of a fully serviced site.

When the Lidl contract is complete it is the intention of the owner of the remainder of this landmark site to make it publically available and marketed as an ideal location for office accommodation / research and development facility or manufacturing base. This site will once again be a centre of economic activity and in due course create significant job opportunities.