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Are we about to get a slice of the Aldi pie?

Plus, at least 20 ancient graves discovered in Maghery!

Jul 28, 2023

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Earlier in the week we reported that an ‘exciting new tenant’ could be making its way to the vacant Sainsbury’s unit at Rushmere. We asked what you’d most like to see and you answered – in your hundreds.

Related: ‘Exciting’ new tenant poised to move into former Sainsbury’s unit at Rushmere in Craigavon

Among the top answers were Dunelm, Smyths Toy Stores and M&S. However, there was one clear winner – budget-friendly supermarket, Aldi. A company representative, even weighed in on the conversation stating: “We are sorry for any disappointment caused, please be assured we will pass this along for review.” Ok, it’s a bit of a “computer says ‘no’” kind of reply but it’s an acknowledgement, nonetheless.

Let’s face it – it makes sense. Aside from the fact that public demand is clearly there, the unit is sizeable, it’s already been kitted out to facilitate a supermarket, there are trolley booths near the entrance and it has close proximity to parking; all making it seem like a logical move.

If Aldi were to open at the location it would be the first in Northern Ireland – another big win for Rushmere after securing Primark!

However, it is worth noting that Aldi have previously been coy about their plans to expand into NI.

So, are we wrong to harbour hopes of more affordable food shopping or are we about to get slice of the pie that the rest of the UK and Ireland have been chowing down on for years?

Headlines

Dog park owner to fight ‘unfairness’ as business faces threat of closure from planners

At least 20 ancient graves discovered in Maghery

The graves were discovered close to the Church of St Mary in Maghery on Monday

Three arrested and large quantity of tobacco seized following searches in Newry and England

Overnight road closure of Portadown Road in Armagh planned as resurfacing starts

Road closed as fire crews battle blaze in Newtownhamilton

Police investigating reports of keyless car thefts in Armagh and Portadown

Richhill ATM theft accused has bail varied to take beauty course in Liverpool

Loughgall boxer claims Celtic belt and harbours hopes of one day fighting at Lakeview

Strict bail after child sexual incitement accused appears in court

Award-winning Dungannon chippy goes on market with owner set to retire

Look Back

This month, 53 years ago, saw the sad closure of Lislea Murphy Primary School, Keady.

The school, which had been a bustling-hub of learning for almost 200 years, sounded the bell for the last time in the last week of June 1970.

The Armagh Observer reported that the school opened for one final day in July to accommodate a party with pupils, parents and staff all in attendance.

At the time of closure, the school had only two teachers and a caretaker.

To commemorate the occasion and give thanks, a pupil by the name of Grace Glasgow presented Mrs S. Heatrick with a silver tray, Mrs. Esther Gray with a silver tea set and caretaker Mrs I. McCullough with a clock.

The pupils were then to be transferred to Drumhillery Primary School to begin the new term in September.

Giveaways

Congratulations Callum Ross! You are the winner of this week’s Omniplex Cinema giveaway, winning a pair of tickets “to the flicks”. Contact our office to arrange collection on 02837443043.

Don’t forget you can enter every week, as many times as you like!