The man behind a Belfast antiques business has revealed plans to transform a former Bangor garden centre into a new visitor destination.
Justin Lowry of On The Square Emporium is set to invest £5 million breathing new life into the former Dickson’s Garden Centre site on Cootehall Road.
His regeneration proposal involves establishing what he believes will be the island’s first antiques centre, potentially creating around 80 jobs.
The Square Emporium Antiques and Garden Centre is also set to feature a farm shop, restaurant, art gallery, children’s play area and workshop space for public and community events.
Mr Lowry, who acquired the 5.6-acre site near Crawfordsburn just a few months ago, believes its scale and location presents significant potential to attract visitors.
“Since the closure of Dickson’s Garden Centre, the majority of the space has been inactive which is disappointing given the contribution it could be making to the local economy and tourism landscape,” he said.
“We have seen the rise of hybrid garden and antique centres right across the UK and they are proving hugely popular.
“This site therefore presents a transformational opportunity to bring a piece of this to Bangor.
“Our vision is to create a unique environment where people can explore, shop, connect, dine and participate in a range of activities suitable for individuals and groups of all ages.”
Mr Lowry currently operates an antiques warehouse on Heron Road in east Belfast.
He said his business ethos is motivated by the circular economy.
“At On The Square Emporium we have always been passionate about sourcing and collecting pieces that can be given a new lease of life rather than thrown away,” he said.
“We now have a vast array of antiques, vintage and collectables from the very affordable nick nacks to high end Irish Georgian furniture.
“On The Square Emporium is now in its eleventh year and we’re seeing more and more people making the conscious decision to buy older pieces of furniture and accessories in the home rather than buying brand new.
“Antique furniture has a lot more character and will last a lot longer than most modern furniture as it is made from solid wood not coated chipboard that’s non-recyclable.”
Mr Lowry said all ancillary occupiers currently on the site will continue trading for the foreseeable future.
A consultation period will now commence, with more details around the plans due to be presented via a public event.
