A beloved shopping center that became a milestone in the 1980s has announced that it is in line with the dismay of shoppers who call it the 'end of an era'.
The Connswater shopping center in East Belfast has been set to close its doors before this month is off, whereby the debt is placed on difficult trade conditions and the loss of high -profile stores.
The 20 remains of the remains were told earlier this week that the center will close in slightly less than two weeks within 21 March.
The 162,000 square foot center is equipped with 52 units and has been part of the East Belfast skyline for more than 40 years and was opened in 1983.
Although it is an immediate success, Footfall has gradually decreased over the years.
Shoppers have mentioned the closure 'The end of an era' with one online writing: 'I cannot believe that Connswater closes. End of an era '.
Another wrote: 'Really sad to read about the closure of the ConnSwater shopping center on March 21. It was more than shops'.
And another said: 'Disappointed to hear about the closure of the Connswater shopping center. For years of decline without pushing to get credible tenants. Many politicians in the east do not give a shot. The area is driven into the ground '.
The Connswater shopping center in East Belfast has been set to close its doors for good before this month is out
The debt is placed on difficult trade conditions and the loss of high -profile stores
The shopping center was opened more than 40 years ago, in 1983 and was immediately a success
It has seen a gradual decline in the last 42 years and now only 20 units will remain open
Michael Jennings from BDO Ni, who has been appointed as a regular recipient of the center in addition to Brian Murphy, ITV News said that notification had been given after the company's viability was assessed.
“In the coming weeks, BDO will support the tenants through this transition and the assessment of potential future applications at ConnSwater and options to market the center for sale,” he added.
MP East Belfast MP and Dup Party Leader Gavin Robinson posted on X: 'The closure of the ConnSwater shopping center this Friday is a sad day for East Belfast. It has been part of our community for decades; This shocking loss will be felt deeply.
'My thoughts are especially among those who are affected by uncertainty and job losses during this difficult time.
“Although the center has been in visible decline for some time, it is vital that the site remains the benefit for the people of the Newtownards Road and the surrounding areas.”
Since then, a petition has been launched online in an attempt to prevent the center from being closed.
A spokeswoman for the ConnSwater shopping center told ITV News: 'The evolving retail landscape, the loss of anchor tenants and difficult market conditions have the increasing and greater to support activities in the ConnSwater shopping center in a viable way.
The shopping center will be closed forever in just under two weeks on March 21
The 162,000 square foot center is equipped with 52 units and has been part of the East Belfast skyline for more than 40 years
Shoppers have mentioned the closure of the center as 'the end of an era' in Belfast
'So, very unfortunate and after a lot of attention for different options, we have now appointed BDO as fixed load recipients for the center.
'We would like to expand our deepest gratitude to our loyal customers, tenants and employees who have supported the Connswater shopping center over the years.
'Your patronage and dedication have been invaluable, and we are greatly appreciated for the community spirit that has been promoted here during our 20 years of ownership.
'We understand that this news will be disappointing for many, the Connswater shopping center has been more than just a store destination; It has been part of the structure of East Belfast. We deeply regret that we have to make this difficult decision. '
